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Safeguarding

TikTok App

Jan 30, 2020

We would advise all parents to read the following link in relation to the TikTok App that has become popular with young people:

https://www.commonsensemedia.org/blog/parents-ultimate-guide-to-tiktok

In summary:

  • TikTok is a free social media app that lets people watch, create, and share videos -- often to a soundtrack of the top hits in music -- right from their phone. However, it can also be used to make videos that could constitute 'cyber bullying' 
  • When you sign up for TikTok, your account is public by default, meaning anyone can see your videos, send you direct messages, and use your location information.
  • Because of TikTok's emphasis on popular music, many videos include swearing and sexual lyrics, so it may not be age-appropriate for kids to use on their own. It's also easy to find people wearing revealing clothing and dancing suggestively
  • TikTok requires that users be at least 13 years old to use the app and that anyone under the age of 18 must have approval of a parent or guardian 
We recommend the app for age 16+ only, mainly due to the privacy issues and mature content