Social media platform TikTok unveils measures to restrict certain beauty filters for underage users.
In the ever-evolving world of social media, the fate of TikTok in the United States remains uncertain, with a decision on its future potentially being made in early 2025. Amidst this uncertainty, the popular video-sharing app has announced a series of measures aimed at protecting minors on its platform.
The concerns about the mental health of minors on the internet have been at the forefront of these changes. TikTok has announced its intention to utilise artificial intelligence to ensure that kids under 13 are not using the platform. The company will also implement technology to detect accounts that might belong to users under the age of 13.
Accounts suspected of belonging to users under 13 may be removed if the moderator believes they do not meet the minimum age. However, users will have the option to appeal if they think their account has been mistakenly identified.
TikTok is also taking steps to block filters that dramatically alter facial features for users under 18. Filters that only apply makeup but don't make structural changes to a person's face will still be allowed for teens. The controversial Bold Glamour filter, which has been criticised for creating unrealistic beauty standards, will reportedly be unavailable to kids.
The changes come amidst ongoing uncertainty about TikTok's future in the U.S. The executive order signed by former President Donald Trump to force TikTok to divest or be banned in the U.S. was challenged in court and dropped by the Biden administration before a new law banning the site was passed.
Trump, however, has expressed support for TikTok to operate in the country. There is reasonable speculation that his support for the app might be influenced by a Republican megadonor's stake in ByteDance, the company that owns TikTok.
TikTok's minimum age requirement of 13 is standard in the U.S. for similar tech. However, concerns have been raised about kids who've used facial 'beauty' features on TikTok reporting feelings of depression and anxiety about their appearance.
The changes will be rolled out globally in the next few weeks. A specially trained moderator will review accounts suspected of belonging to users under 13 to ensure compliance with child protection and privacy regulations.
As TikTok continues to navigate the complexities of operating in the U.S., these measures mark a significant step towards ensuring the safety and wellbeing of its younger users.
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