Children as young as 11 using fake identification have signed up to adult dating apps and fetish groups as Australia looks to implement world-leading youth social media reforms.

New research reveals underage users not only use dating sites but more than half met matches offline, just weeks before the federal government's landmark youth social media ban is rolled out.

Based on interviews with 46 young adults, the Australian Institute of Criminology study found that children have been exposed to sexting, underage sex, as well as drug and alcohol use.

It showed children messaging directly with adults, sharing social media and personal details across multiple platforms.

Almost half admitted to sexting and exchanging sexually explicit photos or videos, saying it was no different to other p

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