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Popular TikTok App Raises Concerns For Young Users

Did you know that TikTok is the world’s most downloaded app? Yes, TikTok is among the most popular apps today. Unfortunately, the Popular TikTok App raises a lot of concerns. n the US, users as young as 8 years old are active on TikTok. Naturally, it could be dangerous for young users. This is why internet security experts warn that the app should not really be used by anyone who is under the age of 16. Although the app launched in the US only a few weeks ago, the company has been around for quite some time in other regions.

Popular TikTok App
Popular TikTok App

Another reason for its popularity and the massive user base is that TikTok bought Musical.ly, another popular video-sharing app. After the deal was successful, TikTok got rights to all the user information. The app basically allows its users to create short videos and share them with their friends and family on the platform. It allows its 500-million users to create the video and add special effect filters and stickers to make it more attractive and engaging.

TikTok and Safety

Rick Floyd is an Information Security specialist with the Greenville County School District. In his talk with children and parents, he discusses online dangers and how one could combat them. He believes that apps like TikTok are not really safe for kids. He never encourages young children to install apps. So, it was quite a shocker when third graders told him that they had TikTok on their phones

He says, “Every class for the last couple of weeks that I spoke to, 3rd, 4th and 5th grade, they’re bringing it up, they’re aware of TikTok, Parents on the other hand when I’ve spoken to them, they have no idea what it is.” Floyd is concerned about exposure to inappropriate videos and language in addition to the fact that the platform is an easy way for young kids to connect to users out there, who may be unsavoury characters.

TikTok App
TikTok App

Children on Popular TikTok App

Posting on TikTok is by no means a personal task. It means you are posting something that the entire world will see. However, for the children, it is something new and fun. Unfortunately, it is also the place where you can see strangers lurking around. A few nine-year-olds have even reported being by strangers online. While the incident is not restricted to TikTok, it plays a major role here. Children are reached out to by stranger on the various apps they use.

Sami Garhat, an elementary school kid, says, “One person sent me a friend request one time, and I joined them and it ended up being a complete stranger who just tried to get me to tell them my information but I just left the game.” Floyd believes that his discussions and talks with the students make a huge difference. It lets the kids know the difference between right and wrong approaches. He also talks about real incidents. The fact that TikTok receives personal data the app about your messages, contacts, location, and more make it all the more dangerous for kids.

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Shilpa

With an experience of over 7 years in writing and translations, I combine my love of technology with writing. I love checking out new apps and smart electronics on the market, trying them out, and of course, writing about them!

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