There are many reasons why YouTube may restrict videos for younger viewers. These include the Elsagate controversy, COPPA regulations, and algorithms. There are also cases where TikTok has tagged videos as being inappropriate for younger users. Regardless of the reason, YouTube has a responsibility to protect children.
Elsagate controversy
The Elsagate controversy is nothing new. It began on the internet in May of 2013. One video featuring a finger family was linked to Elsagate. Later, a report appeared in the British newspaper The Guardian about a channel called Webs and Tiaras.
The videos have sexual and violent content. Some of them depict the Frozen sisters and other characters. The Joker and Spider-Man characters also make appearances. As a result, they are rated “R” or “Mature.” Many parents are worried that these videos are too violent for their children. YouTube has taken action to clean up the videos after major advertisers stopped advertising.
Elsagate videos are just one example of the disturbing content that can be found on the internet. Many of these videos include violent acts and sexual fetishes. Some even feature animated characters performing sexual acts. YouTube is also working to regulate content in videos that target children.
COPPA regulations
The new COPPA regulations are aimed at keeping content appropriate for kids. Most social media platforms require that users be at least 13 years old to join. They could also obtain parental permission, but this is a hassle. The Federal Trade Commission enforces these regulations, and recently fined YouTube $170 million for violating them.
YouTube has responded to the criticism by changing its policy. It has added an option to mark videos as “for adults” or “for children” instead of “for children.” However, the FTC says that it will pursue content creators if they violate the regulations. The vague language in the rules makes it difficult to determine compliance.
YouTube has also issued guidance regarding the age restriction of content directed to kids. It looks at a number of factors to determine if a video is appropriate for children. For example, a Minecraft channel streaming videos for children could be in violation of COPPA. Similarly, if a child comments on the video, the YouTube channel could be subject to FTC scrutiny.
YouTube’s algorithms
In 2016, YouTube introduced new algorithms that aim to create a more personalized experience for viewers. This includes trying to find videos that viewers want to watch. According to the chief product officer at YouTube, 70% of a user’s YouTube watch time is spent watching the algorithms’ recommendations. In addition to age restriction, YouTube has asked video creators to impose age restrictions on their videos.
The algorithms are a set of computer instructions that process video content and associated content to determine relevance, popularity, and viewer satisfaction. The algorithms are designed to make it easier for viewers to find the content they’re looking for and keep them returning. Although the goal of the algorithm is to increase customer retention, the original algorithms were based on what videos people clicked on.
The algorithms work differently for videos that are intended for adults than for those intended for children. When a user searches for a video, they typically land on the homepage. This is because YouTube uses its algorithm to select videos based on popularity. If a video is viewed by a large percentage of viewers who are under the age of 13, it will be labeled as inappropriate.
TikTok tag videos as unsuitable for younger users
While TikTok has always been a short-form video platform, it has been exploring the possibility of longer videos. Last year, it allowed users to upload videos that were three minutes long. Now, it allows users to upload videos up to 10 minutes long. The videos remain optimized for smartphones, with a vertical aspect ratio.
The app allows users to record videos with their camera and microphone. This allows them to upload their recordings without worrying about inappropriate content. Additionally, users can choose to block swear words and images from their comments. The app also censors video content that contains profanity.
As for content, TikTok has millions of songs and videos from artists. It includes popular tracks made specifically for short videos. It makes it easy for users to find the perfect tunes for their videos. In addition to this, users can choose the volume of the music.
