Tik Tok is a social media app that gives users the opportunity to share 60 second short videos with friends, family or the entire world. The videos shared typically range from funny sketches to lip-sync videos featuring special effects to voices over extracts from films
The APP has more than 150 million active users and it is controversial because of the number of teenagers and children who use it.
The minimum age according to TikTok’s terms and conditions is 13, but Tik Tok does not verify a new user’s age except by asking for birth date.
When you download the app, you can instantly see the videos that others have posted on the channel but are not able to share or post anything until you have set up your own account. This is typical with social media.
The Problems
- Some of the videosinclude bad language or subject matter unsuited for children. However, there is a setting to block inappropriate content
- Because the site is used by children and includes videos, it may attract predatory adults
What should parents be concerned about?
You can set up an account on Tik Tpk by using your existing Google, Facebook or Instagram account.
By default all accounts are public so anyone on the app can see what your child shares. However, only approved followers can send them messages.
Users can like or react to a video, follow an account or send messages to each other. There is the risk that strangers will be able to directly contact children on the app.
Children may be tempted to take risks to get more of a following or likes on a video so it’s important to talk about what they share and with who.
You can set an account to be private so that all videos can only be seen by the creator and no one else on the platform. With a private account, you can approve or deny users and limit incoming messages to followers only.
Please note that even with a private account, your child’s profile photo, username, and bio are still visible to all users on the platform.
You can manage who can comment and direct message your child on the APP
Do leave a comment on this post – click on the post title then scroll down to leave your comment.
