We have finally reached a generation that was born with the internet. Most of the children these days grew up with access to the internet and social media apps.
As the digital landscape continues to evolve, it is the prime responsibility of tech companies to ensure that their apps are safe, especially for children users. Over the years, various issues of bullying, sexual harassment, and privacy leaks have been plaguing the youth which sometimes leads to death.
These types of pressing issues should push the big tech companies to implement robust safeguards that would prioritize the protection of children on their platforms. These days, the government is also pushing companies to take accountability for the harmful effects of their apps.
Here are some ways that big tech companies could effectively safeguard children on their platform and at the same time foster a safe digital environment for everyone:
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Age Verification System
Social media companies have since implemented age limitations on their platforms. However, several young users are still able to create their accounts despite the restrictions, proving that there is a big loophole in the system.
In compliance with the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA), social media users should be at least 13 years old to create an account. Tech companies should tighten their age verification systems such as requiring a guardian to consent to account creation.
Moderate Content
Content moderation is a huge topic within social media apps. Several companies have claimed to have banned harmful keywords and explicit images from their sites. However, some content still manages to get past the policy.
There are times when sensitive videos and images will be blurred from the app's display but users can still view the content once they decide to click the view photo option.
Social media apps should invest in advanced content moderation that could filter inappropriate content. This includes violence, hate speech, drugs, and any explicit material.
Collaborate with Government
The government has been actively pushing for child safety online by inviting social media companies to testify and share their plans to mitigate the global concern. While some companies are willing to cooperate, some companies still decide to not participate.
These companies should be open to collaborating with law enforcement agencies that could help suggest the right ways to fight online child exploitation and others. Investigations should also be done transparently so that the public is well aware of the issues.
Strict Adherence to Regulation
Most importantly, companies should adhere to the existing regulations and actively work with policymakers to continuously update the legislation that will protect children online.
Pledges made during hearings are nothing if the companies do not take responsibility and show the public the changes they are making to resolve their issues.
Child-Centric Design
Social media apps can create a child-friendly app that mirrors some of the features of their platform. This will ensure that children are not exposed to inappropriate things that often get past the 'strict' posting policy of the platforms.
