In a move aimed at improving security for underage users, TikTok is updating its live-streaming functionality to restrict hosting to users 18 and over, According to a statement on its website.
TikTok says in the release:
“The foundation of TikTok is built on community trust and safety. To protect our users and creators and support their well-being, we are constantly developing safeguards that we are putting in place. Today, we are making additional changes and improvements to help our community have the best experience possible when using live broadcasts.”
The policy, which will take effect on November 23, raises the minimum age to host a live stream from 16 to 18. content levelswhich aims to protect minor users from threats of sexual exploitation.
As stated in the TikTok press release:
“We want our community to make the most of the opportunities Live can provide without compromising safety. We believe these industry-leading updates can provide even more protection for younger members of our community as they start and grow their online presence.”
The update comes as TikTok faces massive fines from its users British Government for failing to protect children’s privacy. According to investigations, the social media platform could have collected and processed data from children under the age of 13 without proper parental consent.
In the United States, a bipartisan group of eight prosecutors has expanded its investigation into Effects of video sharing on children. The investigation, which began last November, initially targeted only Instagram but has since been expanded to include the Chinese-owned social networking site.
The multi-guest feature will allow the host to invite other participants
The new update also allows hosts to go live with additional participants. Using a grid or canvas layout, content creators can now include up to five other users in a live broadcast, allowing them to interact with the broadcast audience at the same time.
Once they go live, creators can change various settings for the broadcast, including adding effects, filtering comments, and adding moderators. These features can be useful for professional influencers looking to enhance their broadcasts into larger shows and allow anyone who is live broadcasting to add friends to a conversation.
Live hosts can now create adult-only broadcasts
While TikTok will continue to block sexually explicit content, it is also creating an option to allow users to host adult-only broadcasts that feature colorful language and mature themes.
In release, TikTok suggested this could be used for adult-themed comics or discussions on sensitive and erotic topics.
Featured image: DDimaXX/Shutterstock
