Arabic version: تقرير أوفكوم ينتقد تيك توك ويوتيوب لفشلهما في حماية الأطفال

Ofcom has released a report criticizing TikTok and YouTube for not providing safe enough environments for children. According to BBC News, the regulator’s findings come as part of its ongoing efforts to enhance children’s online safety. The report highlighted that both platforms failed to commit to significant changes to reduce harmful content directed at young users.

YouTube stated it collaborates with child safety experts to create “industry-leading, age-appropriate” experiences, while TikTok expressed disappointment over Ofcom’s lack of acknowledgment of its existing safety features. These include measures like restricting direct messaging for users under 16 and offering parental controls for YouTube’s Shorts feature.

Ofcom’s Chief Executive, Dame Melanie Dawes, voiced deep concerns regarding the platforms’ insufficient actions to protect underage users. A survey revealed that 84% of children aged eight to 12 are still using services with a minimum age requirement of 13, prompting calls for stronger legislation.

The report also noted improvements made by Snap, Roblox, and Meta in reducing grooming risks. Snap, for example, plans to block adult strangers from contacting children by default. Meanwhile, the UK government is nearing the end of a consultation period on potentially banning social media for users under 16, with responses expected in the summer.

The Education Committee has already advocated for a ban on social media for under-16s, emphasizing the need for stronger regulations to prioritize children’s safety over commercial interests. Helen Hayes MP stressed that a statutory ban, alongside restrictions on addictive features, is crucial to safeguarding children from online harm.