TikTok is rolling out significant changes aimed at safeguarding the mental health of its teenage users. In the coming weeks, the company will restrict users under 18 from accessing certain beauty filters that subtly alter appearances, such as the popular Bold Glamour filter.
These filters, which smooth skin and enhance facial features, have raised concerns among mental health advocates for promoting unrealistic beauty standards. To enhance transparency, TikTok will expand filter descriptions to specify their effects.
Efforts to Enhance User Safety
Broader Safety Initiatives
The announcement, made during TikTok’s safety forum at its European headquarters in Dublin, is part of a broader effort to improve safety and well-being among younger audiences.
The restrictions will not affect entertainment filters that add humorous effects, like animal ears. Dr. Nikki Soo, TikTok’s Safety and Well-being Public Policy Lead for Europe, confirmed that these measures will be implemented globally.
Addressing Unrealistic Beauty Standards
The decision follows a report by Internet Matters, a children’s online safety non-profit, which highlighted the impact of beautifying filters on unrealistic beauty standards.
The report noted that young users often fail to recognize altered images, leading to distorted perceptions of reality and increased social pressures to conform to idealized appearances.
Expanding Support and Safety Measures
Additional Resources for Users
TikTok will introduce additional support resources in 13 European countries, connecting users who report harmful content, such as self-harm or harassment, to local helplines. With over 175 million monthly active users in Europe, TikTok emphasizes user safety as a core value.
Christine Grahn, TikTok’s European Public Policy Head, stated on LinkedIn that fostering a safe environment is crucial for ensuring users feel comfortable and authentic on the platform.
Enhancing Age Verification
In a move to further enhance safety, TikTok is testing machine-learning tools to better detect accounts created by users under 13, the platform’s minimum age requirement.
The company reports removing about six million accounts annually for failing to meet this age threshold. Users whose accounts are incorrectly flagged will have the opportunity to appeal.
Editor's Comments
TikTok's proactive measures to limit the use of beauty filters among teens underscore the platform's commitment to mental health and user safety.
By addressing unrealistic beauty standards and enhancing support resources, TikTok aims to create a more positive and authentic user experience.
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