TikTok and YouTube 'not safe enough' for kids, says Ofcom

The UK’s communications regulator, Ofcom, has accused TikTok and YouTube of failing to make their platforms safe enough for children, despite repeated calls for stronger protections. In a new report, Ofcom found that neither company committed to meaningful changes to reduce harmful content exposure for underage users, arguing their existing feeds remain unsafe. The regulator’s findings follow its demand for five major platforms—including Meta (Facebook/Instagram), Snap (Snapchat), Roblox, TikTok, and YouTube—to enhance child safety measures. While Snap, Roblox, and Meta agreed to stricter anti-grooming policies—such as Snap blocking adult strangers from contacting children by default and Meta using AI to detect sexualized conversations—TikTok and YouTube pointed to existing features like restricted messaging for under-16s and parental time limits on YouTube Shorts. Ofcom’s survey revealed that 84% of children aged 8 to 12 still use platforms with a minimum age of 13, raising concerns about enforcement of age restrictions. The regulator warned that current voluntary measures are insufficient and suggested behavioral data—such as user engagement patterns—could help verify ages more effectively. TikTok called Ofcom’s assessment ‘very disappointing,’ arguing its safety features were overlooked, while YouTube emphasized its collaboration with child safety experts. However, Ofcom’s Chief Executive, Dame Melanie Dawes, expressed deep concern, stating companies must take urgent action to prevent underage access. The report follows a government consultation on potentially banning social media for under-16s, with Ofcom urging stronger legislation. Experts, including online safety researcher Prof Victoria Baines, noted that past attempts—such as Australia’s age-verification trials—have had limited success in removing underage accounts, suggesting platforms may need stricter behavioral checks.