A Guide to Social Media Apps and their Age Ratings

by | Mar 31, 2020

 

Social Media is one of the most popular aspects of the internet, and with the amount of apps available for download increasing constantly, keeping young people safe online has never been more important.

But what exactly do we need to know about the age restrictions and safety on these apps in terms of internet safety? We answer some of your most frequently asked questions below:

 

Why are a lot of social media apps 13+?

As you can see from the above infographic, many social media apps have an age rating of 13+. This relates to data processing policies that social media companies need to adhere to. Under the COPPA (Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act) Law, social media companies are prohibited from collecting and storing any personal information about any persons under the age of 13, unless they have permission from their Parents/Carers.

 

What age do you recommend to begin social networking?

This is going to be different for everyone. However, if the age rating were to do with content, it may be higher. For example, while YouNow’s terms state that any user needs to be over the age of 13, some of the content that is being generated on that platform would not be appropriate for someone under the age of 18.

It’s always a good idea to gather as much information as possible before proceeding to download any social media app.

We’d recommend checking out Common Sense Media. They give an overview of the app and also a rating based on opinions from experts, Parents/Carers and children and young people too.

 

What about privacy settings?

Privacy settings certainly allow for a greater sense of security when using social media apps. We advise that these are used collaboratively with children and young people, and are set up at the same time as downloading the app.

Certain apps have different content available depending on your age. For example, if you are over 13, but under 18, you may be restricted as to what content you can see on the platform. However, it is possible to falsify your age and receive access to the platform in it’s entirety, so check in regularly to see what your young person is seeing on the apps they may be using.

Internet Matters have excellent online safety guides available for Parents/Carers on popular apps, games and devices.

 

What if they see something upsetting?

It is now strongly advised that through Internet Safety Training, young people develop digital resilience to help them stay safe online. Training young people in internet safety and resilience online is now more important than ever before. Discuss the importance of critical thinking online, speaking up if they ever see something that they find upsetting or worrying, and online conduct regularly.

Thinkuknow (Powered by CEOP), have excellent resources available to train young people in digital resilience.

A key part of keeping young people safe online is talking about their online experiences regularly, this is something we do in our Internet Safety Training and Workshops. Opening up a consistent, non-judgemental conversation goes a long way in providing a stronger level of online safety for young people, particularly on social media platforms.

 

Have you accessed any of the above resources? Let us know in the comments below.

OpenView Education specialises in Anti-Bullying and Internet Safety Training and Workshops for children, young people, Parents/Carers and professionals working with young people. If you are looking for online safety advice contact us now.

Would you like to receive further Internet Safety information?

Click here to follow us on Twitter

Click here to follow us on Facebook

Information accurate at the time of this blog posting.

What Parents Need to Know About Discord

What Parents Need to Know About Discord

As technology evolves, new platforms for social interaction continually emerge. One such platform is Discord, which has gained popularity, particularly among gamers. While Discord offers many positive features, it’s essential for parents and carers to understand its...
Knife Crime Workshops

Knife Crime Awareness Workshops – Positive Choices for Life

At OpenView Education our mission is to empower children and young people with the knowledge and skills that they need to live successful happy lives. That’s why this academic year we’re visiting schools with our new Knife Crime Workshops and Assemblies...
Anti-Bullying Week Poster - Choose Respect

Anti-Bullying Week Poster – Choose Respect

Anti-Bullying Week 2024, taking place from November 11th to 15th, is a significant event dedicated to raising awareness about bullying and promoting kindness and respect among children and young people. This year’s theme is Choose Respect. To help schools promote this...
Our Top Moments

Our Top Moments from This Academic Year

As another academic year comes to an end, we are reflecting on our favourite moments throughout the year. During the 2023 – 2024 academic year, we worked with approximately 150,000 students in our workshops, performances and presentations.  Thank you… To our...
Anti-Bullying Week 2024 Choose Respect

Anti-Bullying Week 2024 – Choose Respect

What is the theme for Anti-Bullying Week 2024? For Anti-Bullying Week 2024 the theme is Choose Respect. The Anti-Bullying Alliance, in collaboration with it’s members, is promoting this vital message. We love this new theme because it emphasises the importance...

TikTok Parent Guide

Download our guide on what parents need to know about TikTok.

TikTok Parent Guide

Thank you! Your TikTok Parent Guide is in your email inbox now.