The regulator has accused TikTok and YouTube in its latest report that these two apps’ content streams continue to lack safety features for kids. It is stated that neither app made any serious commitments in reducing the amount of harmful content on these platforms.
Ofcom Says TikTok and YouTube Are Not Safe Enough for Children
The findings come as pressure continues to grow on major social media companies to improve online safety for children and teenagers. Ofcom said it remains concerned about how harmful content is recommended to younger users through platform feeds and algorithms. It was mentioned that the regulator also intends to raise their concerns to the UK government about whether the platforms were adhering to minimum age requirements. It is reported by Ofcom that there might be a need for stronger safeguards to protect underage internet users.
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Ofcom Raises Concerns Over Child Safety Measures
According to the report, TikTok and YouTube maintained that their current systems already provide safe experiences for younger users. However, Ofcom said available evidence suggests more action is still needed to reduce harmful content exposure on both platforms.
TikTok said the report did not fully recognise the safety features already available on its app, including limits on direct messaging for users under 16. YouTube also defended its platform and said it works closely with child safety experts while offering parental controls and screen time tools for Shorts. Meta has also been exploring a shift toward a paid model under its evolving Meta paid subscription social media strategy, as part of broader changes in its platform ecosystem.
The regulator added that online harms are increasingly being viewed as a platform design issue rather than only a content moderation problem. Experts say the focus is now shifting towards why harmful material is shown to children in the first place.
Other Platforms Agree to Stronger Protections
The report also highlighted new safety measures introduced by other major companies. Meta, Snap, and Roblox agreed to strengthen anti-grooming protections and improve safety features for younger users. Snap said it plans to introduce stronger age verification systems and block adult strangers from contacting children by default in the UK. Roblox will allow parents to disable direct chat for users under 16, while Meta is working on AI tools to detect harmful conversations in direct messages.
Ofcom warned that companies must quickly implement these promises or face possible enforcement action. The UK government is also reviewing options including stricter age limits and a possible social media ban for users under 16 as part of its wider online safety plans. News source eTimes Pakistan.
