The social media platform TikTok has announced a range of new safety features to make the app safer for younger users.
TikTok is the latest social media platform that has reached huge popularity, especially amongst the younger generation.
The simple app allows users to upload their own videos which they can edit and add music to in a quick and easy way. It is this simplicity coupled with catchy songs and viral dance routines which have arguably made TikTok such a hit with kids and teens.
However, whenever there is a child or teen using a new app, there is bound to safety concerns on behalf of the parents.
Social media platforms are beginning to take their responsibility seriously in keeping their users safe online, and TikTok is no different.
They have introduced new safety measures focused on giving parents more control over what their teens are looking at and posting on the app.
In a blog post uploaded to tiktok.com, Cormac Keenan, Head of Trust and Safety, EMEA writes:
As part of our ongoing commitment to providing users with features and resources to have the best experience on TikTok, we are announcing Family Safety Mode, a new feature to help parents and guardians keep their teens safe on TikTok.
According to the post, the Family Safety Mode works by linking a parent's account with their teen's account, which then allows them to enable Digital Wellbeing features, including:
- "Screen Time Management: Control how long their teen can spend on TikTok each day.
- Direct Messages: Limit who can send messages to the connected account or turn off direct messaging completely.
- Restricted Mode: Restrict the appearance of content that may not be appropriate for all audiences."
The platform have also introduced screen time management measures across the app in general - or "Screen Time Management in Feed".
Cormac Keenan states,
We want people to have fun on TikTok, but it's also important for our community to look after their wellbeing which means having a healthy relationship with online apps and services.
With this, they have introduced "prompts" which encourage users to regularly take breaks from their screen.
"We have partnered with some of our most followed and loved creators to create unique and proactive in-app prompts that remind our community to be aware of the time they spend on TikTok and to encourage them to consider taking some time out."
It is imperative that social media companies continue to work with parents in an effort to keep children safe online. What do you think?