TikTok will implement new rules on its platform and this will include a new security feature that bans users who are below 16 years of age from sending direct messages.
This is reportedly the first time a major social-media platform has blocked private messaging by teenagers on a global scale.
Up until now, everyone on TikTok can send direct messages to others, as long as they follow each other.
With the new rule, users who are below the age of 16 will no longer be able to communicate privately on TikTok under any circumstances.
The company has decided to automatically disable Direct Messages for any registered accounts for those under the age of 16. This change will roll out on April 30.
Those who will be affected will receive an in-app notification soon.
The age limit is based on the date of birth added to the account when it is created – but no verification takes place and the system is based on trust.
Therefore, this won’t prevent teenagers from lying about their age online.
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