TikTok, parental controls, TikTok Store, online safety for teens, digital health, social media, technology addiction, cyberbullying
TikTok has incredible popularity among teens. However, the platform's effectiveness in protecting young users from potential risks has always been questioned. Especially when it emerged that the TikTok Store was accessible to users under 18, parents' concerns intensified.
Accessibility to TikTok Store
According to TikTok's policy, the TikTok Store, a e-commerce platform, can be used only by users aged 18 and over. However, research has shown that a vulnerability in the app allows underage users to access the TikTok Store.
The problem arises when a teenager misreports their age during TikTok registration and later pairs their account with a parent for control. Parental control activation does not block access to the TikTok Store because the user initially stated that they were over 18.
"I paired my son's TikTok account with mine, but he can still access the TikTok Store. It's very concerning!" - L.K.
Deficiencies in Parental Controls
TikTok's parental control system offers various features, such as screen time limitations, content filters, and account privacy settings, allowing parents some control over their children's app experiences. However, this glitch regarding access to the TikTok Store highlights a significant deficiency in the system.
Activating parental control does not account for the user's actual age, which does not block access to the TikTok Store. This could lead parents to a false sense of security, thinking TikTok is safe for teens.
| Feature | Description | Effect of Parental Control |
|---|
| TikTok Store | Sale of 18+ products | Accessible even under parental control |
| Screen Time | Limit app usage duration | Effective |
| Content Filters | Block inappropriate content | Partially Effective (Lack of age-based filtering) |
Expectations from TikTok
TikTok states that it expects users to provide their correct ages and offers tools to report users under 13. However, this loophole in the age verification system indicates that more effective measures are needed.
TikTok needs to request that parents verify their children's ages during the setup of parental controls or alert them if they enter a birth date indicating their children are over 18. Additionally, it is important to take extra steps to limit the visibility of adult-oriented products on TikTok Store to young users.
"TikTok needs to do more to show it takes the safety of young users seriously. Parental control must be more effective." - S.T.
Question: I paired my TikTok account with my child's, but they can still access the TikTok Store. What should I do?
Answer: Unfortunately, there is currently no way to completely block access to the TikTok Store. TikTok needs to take steps to address this issue. Meanwhile, you can talk to your child about online safety and explain the importance of being cautious when using the TikTok Store.
Question: I'm worried my child misreported their age on TikTok. What can I do?
Answer: TikTok has a mechanism to report users misrepresenting their age. You can get more information from TikTok's help center.
A Compelling Call
Online safety for teens is everyone's responsibility. We must work together to ensure platforms like TikTok take the necessary measures to protect young users.
Source: TechCrunch
