Artificial Intelligence (AI) is being used at alarming levels for generating child sexual abuse material (CSAM), with analysts saying that it has reached a tipping point.

The watchdog group Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) said that the creation and distribution of AI-generated CSAM are becoming increasingly sophisticated too.&nbsp;

Unlike in the past, these images and videos are finding their way into public online platforms&nbsp;as opposed to the Dark Web, the internet underbelly accessible only through special browsers like Tor.

Watch: US Prosecutors Intensify Action Against AI-Generated Child Abuse Images

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The increasing photorealism of AI-generated visuals is making it difficult for authorities and watchdog agencies to figure out if these are images of a real child needing help, a situation described by an IWF analyst as a 'tipping point'.

What set alarm bells ringing is that just within the past six months, the number of instances of reported AI-generated child sex abuse imagery crossed what it was in the whole previous year.

In this period, the IWF acted on 74 reports of such content, a sharp rise from 70 in all the 12 months prior.&nbsp;

What's more disturbing is that the AI tools creating these images are trained on real victims' content, complicating efforts to identify genuine cases needing intervention, according to Derek Ray-Hill, the IWF interim chief executive.

“Recent months show that this problem is not going away and is in fact getting worse,” The Guardian newspaper quoted him as saying.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-report-exposes-extreme-levels-of-child-abuse-in-armed-conflicts-especially-in-gaza-and-sudan-730923">Also read: UN report exposes 'extreme levels' of child abuse in armed conflicts, especially in Gaza and Sudan</a> 
 
The abuse content ranges from real-looking deepfake videos to altered inappropriate images of clothed children.

More than half of the flagged material is hosted on servers in Russia and the United States, besides Japan and the Netherlands, according to IWF.

The disturbing news comes amid increasing criticism of social media apps over offering safe haven to abusers, and sextortion.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-catholic-diocese-to-pay-323mn-to-530-child-sex-abuse-survivors-in-largest-diocese-bankruptcy-762507">Also read: New York Catholic diocese to pay $323mn to 530 child sex abuse survivors, in largest US diocese bankruptcy</a> 
 
Users on platforms like Instagram are being blackmailed after being tricked into sharing intimate images, according to the Guardian report.

The image-sharing platform owned by Meta is reportedly launching measures to combat such crimes. 
 
It will automatically blur nude images sent via direct messages and caution users about opening them. They will also have the option to block or report senders of such images.

The feature will be enabled by default for teenage accounts while adults can opt in to join.

(With inputs from agencies)

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is being used at alarming levels for generating child sexual abuse material (CSAM), with analysts saying that it has reached a tipping point.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is being used at alarming levels for generating child sexual abuse material (CSAM), with analysts saying that it has reached a tipping point. The watchdog group Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) said that the creation and distribution of AI-generated CSAM are becoming increasingly sophisticated too. Unlike in the past, these images and videos are finding their way into public online platforms as opposed to the Dark Web, the internet underbelly accessible only through special browsers like Tor. Watch: US Prosecutors Intensify Action Against AI-Generated Child Abuse Images × The increasing photorealism of AI-generated visuals is making it difficult for authorities and watchdog agencies to figure out if these are images of a real child needing help, a situation described by an IWF analyst as a 'tipping point'. What set alarm bells ringing is that just within the past six months, the number of instances of reported AI-generated child sex abuse imagery crossed what it was in the whole previous year. In this period, the IWF acted on 74 reports of such content, a sharp rise from 70 in all the 12 months prior. What's more disturbing is that the AI tools creating these images are trained on real victims' content, complicating efforts to identify genuine cases needing intervention, according to Derek Ray-Hill, the IWF interim chief executive. “Recent months show that this problem is not going away and is in fact getting worse,” The Guardian newspaper quoted him as saying. Also read: UN report exposes 'extreme levels' of child abuse in armed conflicts, especially in Gaza and Sudan The abuse content ranges from real-looking deepfake videos to altered inappropriate images of clothed children. More than half of the flagged material is hosted on servers in Russia and the United States, besides Japan and the Netherlands, according to IWF. The disturbing news comes amid increasing criticism of social media apps over offering safe haven to abusers, and sextortion. Also read: New York Catholic diocese to pay $323mn to 530 child sex abuse survivors, in largest US diocese bankruptcy Users on platforms like Instagram are being blackmailed after being tricked into sharing intimate images, according to the Guardian report. The image-sharing platform owned by Meta is reportedly launching measures to combat such crimes. It will automatically blur nude images sent via direct messages and caution users about opening them. They will also have the option to block or report senders of such images. The feature will be enabled by default for teenage accounts while adults can opt in to join. (With inputs from agencies)

AI-generated child sex abuse images, videos rising at alarming levels, warn internet watchdogs

We cannot escape social media and endless scrolling of photos and videos on our smartphones, once we are introduced to the practice. The same is the case with games on mobile phones or consoles. But have you ever wondered why we are so deeply into these technology-driven addictions? Is there a way out, taking control of our time and being mindful and purposeful of our use of technology?

A new book, Managing Your Gaming and Social Media Habits: From Science to Solutions by Catherine Knibbs, offers some tips to get out of social media addiction.

“When we engage with social media or gaming, we disconnect from our bodies and being present, and spend that time interacting with the media for what can seem like hours. This is one of the reasons why we get ‘caught up’ in the scrolling,” Knibbs was quoted as saying in a release.

 
Watch: Are you scrolling phone and is it adding to your stress? Then you are 'doomscrolling'

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&nbsp;

Her book seeks to make us&nbsp;aware of why we use technology the way we do, and how we can recognise when interventions are needed to help master our technology use.

Changing the addictive behaviours around technology could improve our mental health, productivity as well as sleep habits and diet.

<h2>But why are we addicted to technology in the first place?</h2>

This, according to the author, is because of a combination of factors: our need to belong, feel loved and cared for, and the way technology companies design products to address these.

“For some people social media and gaming offer a lifesaving space. Games provide a space for people to connect, and to combat other feelings that exist in their lives such as loneliness, anxiety, and depression,” said Knibbs, a psychotherapist who specialises in cybertrauma and online harms.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/doomscrolling-can-cause-health-issues-says-study-513539">Doomscrolling can cause health issues, says study</a>

She said people told her how their online communities make them feel like they are with people who understand them, see them and have the same interests.

"This can help them when they feel alone and in need of support.”

The book, part of the new Ask The Experts in Psychology series in partnership with the British Psychological Society,&nbsp; says the first step is to understand the tricks that technology companies use to get you addicted to their apps and devices.

They "create products that deliberately tap into our innermost desires and needs so as to keep our attention on those products,” she says.

And those needs are the desire to be recognised, seen, valued, loved and needed, and the fear of missing out or FOMO.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-abrosexuality-receives-a-push-on-social-media-what-is-it-752878">'Abrosexuality' receives a push on social media. What is it?</a> 
 
Avoidance of rejection and abandonment is at the core of what we do daily, especially on social media. “We are born ready to socialise and in doing so we have a primary need to get others to take care of us to prevent us from being rejected, abandoned, and causing us to die,” says Knibbs.

Then there's the desire for novelty, excitement and reward. The apps send out a constant stream of prompts, pings and pushes, nudges, and rewards, to appeal to this aspect of our minds.

<h2>Tips to address social media addiction and start taking back control </h2>

1. Start writing a diary of your technology use&nbsp;

2. Think critically about the situations in which you use it

3. As the question: What needs am I trying to meet when I reach for my smartphone?

4. Notice how the first use of social media of the week happened: what you did, where you were and at what time you first noticed "the urge to open the phone, laptop, computer, console etc"

5. Find out if your technology use is helpful and purposeful or not. Are you using this "in a mindful and purposeful way", so that you can feel more in control?

6. Notice the kinds of things that you seek out online, engage with, scroll past, or hover on

7. Turn the background colours on your devices to black and white

8. Remove notifications from the apps or home screen

9. Instal time blockers that tell you when you have spent a certain amount of time online.

10. Do meditation and other mindfulness practices

The eventual goal, says Knibbs,&nbsp; is "to reach a state where you can engage with technology more intentionally when you have the capacity to do so.”

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

We cannot escape social media and endless scrolling of photos and videos on our smartphones, once we are introduced to the practice. The same is the case with games on mobile phones or consoles.

We cannot escape social media and endless scrolling of photos and videos on our smartphones, once we are introduced to the practice. The same is the case with games on mobile phones or consoles. But have you ever wondered why we are so deeply into these technology-driven addictions? Is there a way out, taking control of our time and being mindful and purposeful of our use of technology? A new book, Managing Your Gaming and Social Media Habits: From Science to Solutions by Catherine Knibbs, offers some tips to get out of social media addiction. “When we engage with social media or gaming, we disconnect from our bodies and being present, and spend that time interacting with the media for what can seem like hours. This is one of the reasons why we get ‘caught up’ in the scrolling,” Knibbs was quoted as saying in a release. Watch: Are you scrolling phone and is it adding to your stress? Then you are 'doomscrolling' × Her book seeks to make us aware of why we use technology the way we do, and how we can recognise when interventions are needed to help master our technology use. Changing the addictive behaviours around technology could improve our mental health, productivity as well as sleep habits and diet. But why are we addicted to technology in the first place? This, according to the author, is because of a combination of factors: our need to belong, feel loved and cared for, and the way technology companies design products to address these. “For some people social media and gaming offer a lifesaving space. Games provide a space for people to connect, and to combat other feelings that exist in their lives such as loneliness, anxiety, and depression,” said Knibbs, a psychotherapist who specialises in cybertrauma and online harms. Also read: Doomscrolling can cause health issues, says study She said people told her how their online communities make them feel like they are with people who understand them, see them and have the same interests. "This can help them when they feel alone and in need of support.” The book, part of the new Ask The Experts in Psychology series in partnership with the British Psychological Society, says the first step is to understand the tricks that technology companies use to get you addicted to their apps and devices. They "create products that deliberately tap into our innermost desires and needs so as to keep our attention on those products,” she says. And those needs are the desire to be recognised, seen, valued, loved and needed, and the fear of missing out or FOMO. Also read: 'Abrosexuality' receives a push on social media. What is it? Avoidance of rejection and abandonment is at the core of what we do daily, especially on social media. “We are born ready to socialise and in doing so we have a primary need to get others to take care of us to prevent us from being rejected, abandoned, and causing us to die,” says Knibbs. Then there's the desire for novelty, excitement and reward. The apps send out a constant stream of prompts, pings and pushes, nudges, and rewards, to appeal to this aspect of our minds. Tips to address social media addiction and start taking back control 1. Start writing a diary of your technology use 2. Think critically about the situations in which you use it 3. As the question: What needs am I trying to meet when I reach for my smartphone? 4. Notice how the first use of social media of the week happened: what you did, where you were and at what time you first noticed "the urge to open the phone, laptop, computer, console etc" 5. Find out if your technology use is helpful and purposeful or not. Are you using this "in a mindful and purposeful way", so that you can feel more in control? 6. Notice the kinds of things that you seek out online, engage with, scroll past, or hover on 7. Turn the background colours on your devices to black and white 8. Remove notifications from the apps or home screen 9. Instal time blockers that tell you when you have spent a certain amount of time online. 10. Do meditation and other mindfulness practices The eventual goal, says Knibbs, is "to reach a state where you can engage with technology more intentionally when you have the capacity to do so.” (With inputs from agencies)

Are you addicted to social media and gaming? Here are tips to escape the mindless scrolling

Watching YouTube shorts, Instagram reels and TikTok videos on endless scroll is a way to kill boredom for millions of mostly young people. However, a new study has found that moving from one video to the next actually causes more boredom.

Digital switching is the practice of people switching between videos or fast-forward through them on platforms like YouTube, TikTok and Netflix. The study done in University of Toronto showed that this switching behaviour "makes people feel more bored, less satisfied, less engaged, and less meaningful in some instances."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp; <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-court-blocks-key-part-of-california-law-on-childrens-online-safety-750870">US court blocks key part of California law on children's online safety</a>

The&nbsp;assessment was made based on the idea that switching from one content to other is actually a tedious process, which tires one's attention span. Boredom is directly linked to attention: it's the disparity between what one wants to do or where one wants to be versus the reality.&nbsp;

“When people keep switching through videos, they become less engaged with the videos and they are looking for something more interesting. This can lead to increased feelings of boredom,” the Guardian newspaper quoted Dr Katy Tam at the University of Toronto Scarborough, the lead author of the research, as saying.

<h2>How 'boredom on social media' study was done</h2>

The study, published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology: General, reached the conclusion after experiments on 1,200 participants who were shown videos and made to answer questions about boredom.

One experiment with 140 respondents revealed that people tended to switch between videos more when they rated the content more boring.&nbsp;

WATCH:&nbsp;Social media platform X makes likes private to enhance user privacy

&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

"We found a bidirectional, causal relationship between boredom and digital switching.&nbsp;When participants were bored, they switched and they believed that switching would help them avoid boredom," said the study.

It was found that switching between videos - or within a video - not only led to more boredom, but also reduced satisfaction, reduced attention, and lowered meaning.&nbsp;

Even when participants had the freedom to watch videos of personal choice and interest on YouTube, digital switching still intensified boredom, it found.&nbsp;

"Our findings suggest that attempts to avoid boredom through digital switching may sometimes inadvertently exacerbate it," said the authors.

<h2>Age may be a factor in how easily bored you get with online videos</h2>

People of different ages, said the study,&nbsp;may have different habits when it comes to watching videos and switching. “How people consume videos and how this affects boredom may vary based on age and digital media habits," it said, adding further research is needed to explore this aspect.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/google-meta-bend-their-own-rules-to-target-teenagers-with-ad-campaigns-report-748487">Google, Meta bend their own rules to target teenagers with ad campaigns: Report</a>

So what's the best way to enjoy videos while avoiding boredom?

“Just as we pay for an immersive experience in a movie theatre, enjoyment often comes from immersing ourselves in videos rather than swiping through them,” Tan said. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Watching YouTube shorts, Instagram reels and TikTok videos on endless scroll is a way to kill boredom for millions of mostly young people. However, a new study has found that moving from one video to the next actually causes more boredom.

Watching YouTube shorts, Instagram reels and TikTok videos on endless scroll is a way to kill boredom for millions of mostly young people. However, a new study has found that moving from one video to the next actually causes more boredom. Digital switching is the practice of people switching between videos or fast-forward through them on platforms like YouTube, TikTok and Netflix. The study done in University of Toronto showed that this switching behaviour "makes people feel more bored, less satisfied, less engaged, and less meaningful in some instances." Also read: US court blocks key part of California law on children's online safety The assessment was made based on the idea that switching from one content to other is actually a tedious process, which tires one's attention span. Boredom is directly linked to attention: it's the disparity between what one wants to do or where one wants to be versus the reality. “When people keep switching through videos, they become less engaged with the videos and they are looking for something more interesting. This can lead to increased feelings of boredom,” the Guardian newspaper quoted Dr Katy Tam at the University of Toronto Scarborough, the lead author of the research, as saying. How 'boredom on social media' study was done The study, published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology: General, reached the conclusion after experiments on 1,200 participants who were shown videos and made to answer questions about boredom. One experiment with 140 respondents revealed that people tended to switch between videos more when they rated the content more boring. WATCH: Social media platform X makes likes private to enhance user privacy × "We found a bidirectional, causal relationship between boredom and digital switching. When participants were bored, they switched and they believed that switching would help them avoid boredom," said the study. It was found that switching between videos - or within a video - not only led to more boredom, but also reduced satisfaction, reduced attention, and lowered meaning. Even when participants had the freedom to watch videos of personal choice and interest on YouTube, digital switching still intensified boredom, it found. "Our findings suggest that attempts to avoid boredom through digital switching may sometimes inadvertently exacerbate it," said the authors. Age may be a factor in how easily bored you get with online videos People of different ages, said the study, may have different habits when it comes to watching videos and switching. “How people consume videos and how this affects boredom may vary based on age and digital media habits," it said, adding further research is needed to explore this aspect. Also read: Google, Meta bend their own rules to target teenagers with ad campaigns: Report So what's the best way to enjoy videos while avoiding boredom? “Just as we pay for an immersive experience in a movie theatre, enjoyment often comes from immersing ourselves in videos rather than swiping through them,” Tan said. (With inputs from agencies)

Those videos you scroll for killing time might actually be causing more boredom

A person’s identity is now bifurcated into two. One is the identity we portray to our friends, family, colleagues, and partner(s) in real life, and the other is the one we carefully curate for our social media followers. 
&nbsp; 
Your Instagram self is likely very different from your real self. With filtering, body morphing, and lately artificial intelligence, you can create a very happy image of yourself for your followers, with many of them involuntarily feeling that they are not spending, studying, partying, or working out enough. 
&nbsp; 
This duality comes at a cost. The loneliness that comes with excessive social media use is well-discussed, and science has now confirmed it.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared loneliness a severe global health threat, with the mortality threats associated with it equivalent to smoking as many as 15 cigarettes a day.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Now, researchers have established a direct relationship between excessive smartphone usage and loneliness. Not surprisingly, online friendships and connections, though fulfilling, are not nearly as important as real-life interactions.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Children and young people are at increased risk of becoming addicted to their smartphones, with toddlers not eating their meals without watching YouTube or Instagram being a common occurrence.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
A study has now concluded that 60 per cent of children between the ages of 5 and 16 exhibit behaviours indicative of potential digital addiction, and close to 1/3 of the total world population may be addicted to smartphones.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
These statistics speak of an impending mental health disaster that requires our immediate attention.

<h2>What can we do?</h2>

US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy has called for ‘warning labels’ on social media for children. These labels, similar to the ones on tobacco products, will be displayed to minors before they use social media. 
&nbsp; 
Murthy added that they may help in ‘increasing awareness and changing people’s behaviour, if not alleviate the issues around social media.’&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Some places, like Florida, USA, have banned the use of social media applications for people under the age of 14. New York now also requires parental guidance for accessing certain content on social media for minors.&nbsp;

<h2>Is the problem systemic?</h2>

While overuse is a pertinent issue to be discussed, the companies behind our favourite social media applications must share heavier blame for the crisis we are all in. Companies like TikTok, Meta, and Google have been time and again found to not be doing enough to protect children’s mental health and restrict excessive usage of their apps.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putins-pyongyang-yawn-social-media-buzzes-over-videos-of-bored-putin-at-north-korean-concert-733542">Putin's Pyongyang yawn: Social media buzzes over videos of 'bored' Putin at North Korean concert - See pics</a> 
&nbsp; 
Instagram currently only offers the option to set a time limit for using its app. But all of us, including this writer, are guilty of overriding the timer warning and proceeding to doom scroll. Companies must do more, or else face penalties.

<h2>Real-life threats&nbsp;</h2>

‘Phishing, catfishing, honey-trapping, bank fraud, kidnappings’, and even ‘virtual sexual assault’ have become terms we are all now familiar with due to the rampant misuse of social media. Combine cyber threats with algorithms that literally track our swiping and scrolling, and we are left with one big question: Is all of it worth our safety?&nbsp;

<h2>Plus side too?&nbsp;</h2>

The cons of social media use are overwhelming, but there are some pros to using it too. Social media has saved lives. This quality of connecting people was on display during the second wave of COVID-19 in India, when Twitter storms helped people find precious oxygen cylinders. From long-lost friends to cats and their owners, happy reunions have been made possible by the power of social media.&nbsp;

<h2>Way forward</h2>

Like all things, social media too has its pros and cons and must be used in balance. But maybe it is time for consumers to stop blaming themselves and demand Big Tech companies (for whom we are just consumers) to step in and take action.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
If they fail to do so, all of us might continue going to sleep with all of the world’s bad news 10 inches away from our faces. We shouldn’t be surprised if we wake up tired and burnt out.

A person’s identity is now bifurcated into two. One is the identity we portray to our friends, family, colleagues, and partner(s) in real life, and the other is the one we carefully curate for our social media followers.

A person’s identity is now bifurcated into two. One is the identity we portray to our friends, family, colleagues, and partner(s) in real life, and the other is the one we carefully curate for our social media followers. Your Instagram self is likely very different from your real self. With filtering, body morphing, and lately artificial intelligence, you can create a very happy image of yourself for your followers, with many of them involuntarily feeling that they are not spending, studying, partying, or working out enough. This duality comes at a cost. The loneliness that comes with excessive social media use is well-discussed, and science has now confirmed it. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared loneliness a severe global health threat, with the mortality threats associated with it equivalent to smoking as many as 15 cigarettes a day. Now, researchers have established a direct relationship between excessive smartphone usage and loneliness. Not surprisingly, online friendships and connections, though fulfilling, are not nearly as important as real-life interactions. Children and young people are at increased risk of becoming addicted to their smartphones, with toddlers not eating their meals without watching YouTube or Instagram being a common occurrence. A study has now concluded that 60 per cent of children between the ages of 5 and 16 exhibit behaviours indicative of potential digital addiction, and close to 1/3 of the total world population may be addicted to smartphones. These statistics speak of an impending mental health disaster that requires our immediate attention. What can we do? US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy has called for ‘warning labels’ on social media for children. These labels, similar to the ones on tobacco products, will be displayed to minors before they use social media. Murthy added that they may help in ‘increasing awareness and changing people’s behaviour, if not alleviate the issues around social media.’ Some places, like Florida, USA, have banned the use of social media applications for people under the age of 14. New York now also requires parental guidance for accessing certain content on social media for minors. Is the problem systemic? While overuse is a pertinent issue to be discussed, the companies behind our favourite social media applications must share heavier blame for the crisis we are all in. Companies like TikTok, Meta, and Google have been time and again found to not be doing enough to protect children’s mental health and restrict excessive usage of their apps. Also read: Putin's Pyongyang yawn: Social media buzzes over videos of 'bored' Putin at North Korean concert - See pics Instagram currently only offers the option to set a time limit for using its app. But all of us, including this writer, are guilty of overriding the timer warning and proceeding to doom scroll. Companies must do more, or else face penalties. Real-life threats ‘Phishing, catfishing, honey-trapping, bank fraud, kidnappings’, and even ‘virtual sexual assault’ have become terms we are all now familiar with due to the rampant misuse of social media. Combine cyber threats with algorithms that literally track our swiping and scrolling, and we are left with one big question: Is all of it worth our safety? Plus side too? The cons of social media use are overwhelming, but there are some pros to using it too. Social media has saved lives. This quality of connecting people was on display during the second wave of COVID-19 in India, when Twitter storms helped people find precious oxygen cylinders. From long-lost friends to cats and their owners, happy reunions have been made possible by the power of social media. Way forward Like all things, social media too has its pros and cons and must be used in balance. But maybe it is time for consumers to stop blaming themselves and demand Big Tech companies (for whom we are just consumers) to step in and take action. If they fail to do so, all of us might continue going to sleep with all of the world’s bad news 10 inches away from our faces. We shouldn’t be surprised if we wake up tired and burnt out.

Tobacco-like ‘warning labels’ for social media soon? Is Big Tech responsible for our addiction?

US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy on Monday (June 17) called for warning labels to be placed on social media apps to alert users, especially youths, of the dangers associated with the use of such applications.&nbsp;

<h2>'Surgeon General's warning label'</h2>

In an opinion piece he penned for the New York Times, Murthy pointed out that while&nbsp;a warning label alone might not alleviate all the issues around&nbsp;social&nbsp;media, it could at least increase awareness&nbsp;and perhaps change behaviour — much like the impact warning labels have had on tobacco.&nbsp;

"It is time to require a surgeon general's warning label on social media platforms, stating that social media is associated with significant mental health harms for adolescents," wrote Murthy.&nbsp;

Such a step would not be carried out on Murthy's advice alone and would need the US Congress legislation.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-slams-republicans-over-deceptive-cheapfake-videos-of-bidens-mental-decline-732657">White House slams Republicans over deceptive 'cheapfake' videos of Biden's alleged mental decline</a>

<h2>Social media and the threats children face online</h2>

The recent call by Murthy for a warning label is part of broader concerns around growing mental health problems among youngsters stemming from the use of social media, reports Reuters.

Although social media companies such as TikTok, Snap, and Meta Platforms (the parent company of Facebook and Instagram) have yet to comment on Murthy's proposal, they have already got into hot water with policymakers over online child safety.

Previously, in January, US Senators&nbsp;grilled the CEOs&nbsp;of the three companies about online child safety. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham had even accused them of having "blood on your hands," for failing to protect young users from sexual predators.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/florida-bans-children-under-14-from-using-social-media-14-15-year-olds-will-need-parental-consent-704218" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/florida-bans-children-under-14-from-using-social-media-14-15-year-olds-will-need-parental-consent-704218&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwitrt6FteSGAxWZslYBHRJoDGMQFnoECAAQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw0hqGVmfU6caEQWS-EDVq0M&amp;arm=e&amp;fexp=72519171,72519168,72638199,72638200" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/florida-bans-children-under-14-from-using-social-media-14-15-year-olds-will-need-parental-consent-704218" target="_blank">Florida&nbsp;bans&nbsp;children&nbsp;under 14 from using social media</a>

The concerns have also led to some US states regulating social media use by minors. New York recently passed legislation restricting certain algorithmic content for those under 18 without parental consent. In Florida, a bill passed in March requires children aged 14 and 15 to receive parental consent for the use of social media; children under 14 are banned from using such apps.

Critics of social media include youth advocates and lawmakers, who say it is breeding shortened attention spans, a negative body image&nbsp;and heightened susceptibility to online bullying and predators. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy on Monday (June 17) called for warning labels to be placed on social media apps to alert users, especially youths, of the dangers associated with the use of such applications.

US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy on Monday (June 17) called for warning labels to be placed on social media apps to alert users, especially youths, of the dangers associated with the use of such applications. 'Surgeon General's warning label' In an opinion piece he penned for the New York Times, Murthy pointed out that while a warning label alone might not alleviate all the issues around social media, it could at least increase awareness and perhaps change behaviour — much like the impact warning labels have had on tobacco. "It is time to require a surgeon general's warning label on social media platforms, stating that social media is associated with significant mental health harms for adolescents," wrote Murthy. Such a step would not be carried out on Murthy's advice alone and would need the US Congress legislation. Also read | White House slams Republicans over deceptive 'cheapfake' videos of Biden's alleged mental decline Social media and the threats children face online The recent call by Murthy for a warning label is part of broader concerns around growing mental health problems among youngsters stemming from the use of social media, reports Reuters. Although social media companies such as TikTok, Snap, and Meta Platforms (the parent company of Facebook and Instagram) have yet to comment on Murthy's proposal, they have already got into hot water with policymakers over online child safety. Previously, in January, US Senators grilled the CEOs of the three companies about online child safety. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham had even accused them of having "blood on your hands," for failing to protect young users from sexual predators. Also read | Florida bans children under 14 from using social media The concerns have also led to some US states regulating social media use by minors. New York recently passed legislation restricting certain algorithmic content for those under 18 without parental consent. In Florida, a bill passed in March requires children aged 14 and 15 to receive parental consent for the use of social media; children under 14 are banned from using such apps. Critics of social media include youth advocates and lawmakers, who say it is breeding shortened attention spans, a negative body image and heightened susceptibility to online bullying and predators. (With inputs from agencies)

Warning labels on social media? Vivek Murthy calls for 'surgeon general's warning label' for child safety

Snapchat, TikTok, and Meta are facing a $4.5-billion lawsuit from four Ontario school boards. The school boards accuse these social media platforms of hurting students, interfering with their learning, and harming their mental health, leaving educators to “manage the fallout,” according to a local news report.

All four cases were separately filed by the public boards of Toronto, Peel, Ottawa, and the Toronto Catholic Board and are represented by Neinstein LLP.&nbsp;

<h2>Why are the school boards suing Snapchat, TikTok, and Meta?</h2>

Social media apps are designed for compulsive use (and) have rewired the way children think, behave, and learn, say their statements of claim. The plaintiff's statement of claim also says that the social media companies have knowingly and negligently disrupted and fundamentally changed the school, learning, and teaching climate.

Colleen Russell-Rawlins, director of education at the Toronto District School Board, told the Toronto Star, "We're managing mental health challenges, loneliness and … discrimination — the slurs that we're seeing students use, some of that emanates from what's on social media."

"The defendants knew, or ought to have known, that their negligent conduct seriously and negatively impacts the student population by causing maladaptive brain development, compulsive use, disrupted sleep patterns, behavioural dysregulation, learning and attention impairment, and other serious issues that impact the school, learning, and teaching climate," the statements of claim reads.

<h2>Snapchat, TikTok, and Meta face lawsuits in the U.S</h2>

Over 500 school districts in the U.S. have launched similar cases now against these platforms. In January 2024, CEOs of Meta, TikTok, and X among other companies testified in a US court hearing. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin, who chairs the committee said, “They’re responsible for many of the dangers our children face online. Their design choices, their failures to adequately invest in trust and safety, their constant pursuit of engagement and profit over basic safety have all put our kids and grandkids at risk.”

On March 25, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed a bill that bans children under the age of 14 from social media platforms. The bill also requires children aged 14 and 15 to get parental consent for using social media platforms.

Snapchat, TikTok, and Meta are facing a $4.5-billion lawsuit from four Ontario school boards. The school boards accuse these social media platforms of hurting students, interfering with their learning, and harming their mental health, leaving educators to “manage the fallout,” according to a local news report.

Snapchat, TikTok, and Meta are facing a $4.5-billion lawsuit from four Ontario school boards. The school boards accuse these social media platforms of hurting students, interfering with their learning, and harming their mental health, leaving educators to “manage the fallout,” according to a local news report. All four cases were separately filed by the public boards of Toronto, Peel, Ottawa, and the Toronto Catholic Board and are represented by Neinstein LLP. Why are the school boards suing Snapchat, TikTok, and Meta? Social media apps are designed for compulsive use (and) have rewired the way children think, behave, and learn, say their statements of claim. The plaintiff's statement of claim also says that the social media companies have knowingly and negligently disrupted and fundamentally changed the school, learning, and teaching climate. Colleen Russell-Rawlins, director of education at the Toronto District School Board, told the Toronto Star, "We're managing mental health challenges, loneliness and … discrimination — the slurs that we're seeing students use, some of that emanates from what's on social media." "The defendants knew, or ought to have known, that their negligent conduct seriously and negatively impacts the student population by causing maladaptive brain development, compulsive use, disrupted sleep patterns, behavioural dysregulation, learning and attention impairment, and other serious issues that impact the school, learning, and teaching climate," the statements of claim reads. Snapchat, TikTok, and Meta face lawsuits in the U.S Over 500 school districts in the U.S. have launched similar cases now against these platforms. In January 2024, CEOs of Meta, TikTok, and X among other companies testified in a US court hearing. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin, who chairs the committee said, “They’re responsible for many of the dangers our children face online. Their design choices, their failures to adequately invest in trust and safety, their constant pursuit of engagement and profit over basic safety have all put our kids and grandkids at risk.” On March 25, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed a bill that bans children under the age of 14 from social media platforms. The bill also requires children aged 14 and 15 to get parental consent for using social media platforms.

Canada school boards file $4.5 billion case against Snapchat, TikTok, and Meta for 'deliberately' harming kids

A recent report titled 'Health Behaviour in School-aged Children' by WHO Europe reveals that cyberbullying among adolescents has surged by 13% over the past four years, with around 16% of adolescents experiencing cyberbullying in 2022.

WHO's regional director for Europe, Hans Kluge said, “This report is a wake-up call for all of us to address bullying and violence, whenever and wherever it happens.”

<h2>Cyberbullying: Gender disparities, and impact of parents' status</h2>

The report highlights gender disparities, with 15% of boys and 16% of girls reporting cyberbullying incidents in recent months. WHO noted that since COVID-19, virtual peer violence has become particularly relevant because the pandemic has shifted young people’s interactions online.

Contrary to beliefs, parents' socioeconomic status has little influence on children's behaviour, except in Canada, where less advantaged youths are more likely to experience bullying.

While cyberbullying rates have surged, other forms of bullying, like physical altercations at school, have seen a slight rise but remain relatively stable.

<h2>Regional variances: Which country has the highest cyberbullying rate?</h2>

Cyberbullying rates vary across countries, with boys in Bulgaria, Lithuania, Moldova, and Poland experiencing the highest levels, while Spain reports the lowest, the WHO report covers 44 countries.

According to the report, one in eight adolescents admitted to cyberbullying others. “With young people spending up to six hours online every single day, even small changes in the rates of bullying and violence can have profound implications for the health and well-being of thousands,” said WHO's regional director for Europe in a statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-28-people-jailed-for-harassment-of-influencer-in-key-cyberbullying-case-702444">France: 28 people jailed for harassment of influencer in key cyberbullying case</a>

The report draws insights from a substantial dataset of 279,000 children and adolescents across 44 countries in Europe, Central Asia, and Canada.

The report highlighting the need to combat cyberbullying noted, “There is also an urgent need to educate young people, families and schools of the forms of cyberbullying and its implications, while regulating social media platforms to limit exposures to cyberbullying.” 
&nbsp;

A recent report titled 'Health Behaviour in School-aged Children' by WHO Europe reveals that cyberbullying among adolescents has surged by 13% over the past four years, with around 16% of adolescents experiencing cyberbullying in 2022.

A recent report titled 'Health Behaviour in School-aged Children' by WHO Europe reveals that cyberbullying among adolescents has surged by 13% over the past four years, with around 16% of adolescents experiencing cyberbullying in 2022. WHO's regional director for Europe, Hans Kluge said, “This report is a wake-up call for all of us to address bullying and violence, whenever and wherever it happens.” Cyberbullying: Gender disparities, and impact of parents' status The report highlights gender disparities, with 15% of boys and 16% of girls reporting cyberbullying incidents in recent months. WHO noted that since COVID-19, virtual peer violence has become particularly relevant because the pandemic has shifted young people’s interactions online. Contrary to beliefs, parents' socioeconomic status has little influence on children's behaviour, except in Canada, where less advantaged youths are more likely to experience bullying. While cyberbullying rates have surged, other forms of bullying, like physical altercations at school, have seen a slight rise but remain relatively stable. Regional variances: Which country has the highest cyberbullying rate? Cyberbullying rates vary across countries, with boys in Bulgaria, Lithuania, Moldova, and Poland experiencing the highest levels, while Spain reports the lowest, the WHO report covers 44 countries. According to the report, one in eight adolescents admitted to cyberbullying others. “With young people spending up to six hours online every single day, even small changes in the rates of bullying and violence can have profound implications for the health and well-being of thousands,” said WHO's regional director for Europe in a statement. Also read | France: 28 people jailed for harassment of influencer in key cyberbullying case The report draws insights from a substantial dataset of 279,000 children and adolescents across 44 countries in Europe, Central Asia, and Canada. The report highlighting the need to combat cyberbullying noted, “There is also an urgent need to educate young people, families and schools of the forms of cyberbullying and its implications, while regulating social media platforms to limit exposures to cyberbullying.”

WHO report shows rise in cyberbullying, 1 in 8 adolescents cyberbullies others

With the world showering praise&nbsp;on KL Rahul for notching up perhaps his greatest hundred during the ongoing Boxing Day Test (against South Africa), the India batter decided not to get carried away, knowing how dark it could turn out to be if he fails in the next innings.

Upon returning to international cricket following a lengthy layoff (leg injury) since IPL this year, KL endured much hate and abuse online and addressed the issue after the second day's play in Centurion.

Rahul said international cricket comes with different challenges, and dealing with online abuse is one of them. The India keeper-batter said social media is a pressure and that it affects everyone, even those who claim to be thick-skinned than others.

"It is difficult obviously," Rahul said on how he handles online abuse.&nbsp;

"You have your personality, personality traits, characteristics. When you play international cricket, they all get challenged. As a person, as a cricketer, as an individual, you are challenged each day, each moment.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sa-vs-ind-1st-test-dean-elgar-ton-headlines-day-2-in-centurion-as-hosts-take-vital-lead-674114">SA vs IND, 1st Test: Dean Elgar ton headlines Day 2 in Centurion as hosts take vital lead</a>

“Social media is a pressure. Today, I have scored a hundred, so people are singing praises. Three or four months ago, everybody was abusing me. It's part of the game, but I can't say it doesn't affect you; it does. The sooner you realise that staying away from it is good for your game and your mindset, the better it is,” he added.

<h2>Rahul on how he&nbsp;got&nbsp;over it</h2>

Being away from the game for a few months, KL not only had to deal with the pressure of attaining full fitness in time for the 2023 World Cup but also had to work on ways to keep himself calmer and avoid getting affected by social media abuse.

"But like anything else in cricket, like anything else in life, there's, there are ways to work on it. There are people who can help you if your mind is open. So, that's what I did when I was out of the game. I worked on myself and then worked on remaining calmer and taking care of my head. And what happens inside as well,” the India batter added.

<h3>South Africa take narrow lead in Centurion</h3>

While KL Rahul starred for India in the first innings, hitting 101, South Africa opener Dean Elgar, playing his farewell series, is unbeaten on 140, with the home team leading by 11 runs and five wickets remaining.

With the world showering praise on KL Rahul for notching up perhaps his greatest hundred during the ongoing Boxing Day Test (against South Africa), the India batter decided not to get carried away, knowing how dark it could turn out to be if he fails in the next innings.

With the world showering praise on KL Rahul for notching up perhaps his greatest hundred during the ongoing Boxing Day Test (against South Africa), the India batter decided not to get carried away, knowing how dark it could turn out to be if he fails in the next innings. Upon returning to international cricket following a lengthy layoff (leg injury) since IPL this year, KL endured much hate and abuse online and addressed the issue after the second day's play in Centurion. Rahul said international cricket comes with different challenges, and dealing with online abuse is one of them. The India keeper-batter said social media is a pressure and that it affects everyone, even those who claim to be thick-skinned than others. "It is difficult obviously," Rahul said on how he handles online abuse. "You have your personality, personality traits, characteristics. When you play international cricket, they all get challenged. As a person, as a cricketer, as an individual, you are challenged each day, each moment. ALSO READ: SA vs IND, 1st Test: Dean Elgar ton headlines Day 2 in Centurion as hosts take vital lead “Social media is a pressure. Today, I have scored a hundred, so people are singing praises. Three or four months ago, everybody was abusing me. It's part of the game, but I can't say it doesn't affect you; it does. The sooner you realise that staying away from it is good for your game and your mindset, the better it is,” he added. Rahul on how he got over it Being away from the game for a few months, KL not only had to deal with the pressure of attaining full fitness in time for the 2023 World Cup but also had to work on ways to keep himself calmer and avoid getting affected by social media abuse. "But like anything else in cricket, like anything else in life, there's, there are ways to work on it. There are people who can help you if your mind is open. So, that's what I did when I was out of the game. I worked on myself and then worked on remaining calmer and taking care of my head. And what happens inside as well,” the India batter added. South Africa take narrow lead in Centurion While KL Rahul starred for India in the first innings, hitting 101, South Africa opener Dean Elgar, playing his farewell series, is unbeaten on 140, with the home team leading by 11 runs and five wickets remaining.

SA v IND: Social media is a pressure, if affects you: KL Rahul on dealing with online abuse

Canadian journalist Rachel Gilmore, in an online post, stated, "I'm done", as she asked government authorities to handle the increase in hate, which included threats of rape and death, targetting her and her peers.&nbsp;

The journalists in Canada have been facing increase in online abuse, an issue which has now become a global phenomenon. In the wake of the growing online abuse, dozens of media organisations joined hands with reporters to pressurise the government authorities to consider the matter seriously.

Global News' reporter Gilmore said that the "free press is under attack”. We won't be silenced. But we need you to stand up for us,” she added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-summons-beijings-ambassador-issues-warning-over-alleged-chinese-police-stations-539360">Canada summons Beijing’s ambassador, issues warning over alleged Chinese police stations</a>

The journalists have been complaining of facing catcalls' interruption in their live broadcasts and obscenity-filled online threats. Few journalists are even afraid in leaving their houses and have opted for extraordinary security precautions.

The Hill Times' columnist Erica Ifill said, "It's relentless. It ranges from death threats to rape threats to letting us know they're surveilling us."

"I'm thinking maybe I should leave journalism," she added. Gilmore's appeal for action was supported by the Canadian Association of Journalists (CAJ).

WATCH|&nbsp;Canada seeks to liberalise Euthanasia laws, to allow 'mentally ill' people to die

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/canada-seeks-to-liberalise-euthanasia-laws-to-allow-mentally-ill-people-to-die-542090/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Earlier in December, an open letter was published by 52 broacasters, media organisations and newspapers which warned of a "chilling effect" and appealed political leaders to condemn "any attempts to undermine" the press.

"Online harassment is a scourge on our democracy and it needs to stop," stated the CAJ, adding that such "vile abuse" is mostly directed towards women journalists or the journalists who are of different colour or belong to LGBT.&nbsp;

Gilmore, along with other journalists, have been said "trash whores" on social media. One post read they "need to be boogaloo'ed the fuck out of Canada," with the use of a term which is linked to the United States' far-right movement.&nbsp;

"I'll kill you bitch better watch your back when your (sic) in public," another user stated.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Canadian Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino tweeted: "The abuse that Rachel and other journalists have received -- in particular women and people of color -- is heinous and unacceptable."&nbsp;

As per Mendicino's office, the issue has been raised with chiefs of police across the country.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Canadian journalist Rachel Gilmore, in an online post, stated, "I'm done", as she asked government authorities to handle the increase in hate, which included threats of rape and death, targetting her and her peers.

Canadian journalist Rachel Gilmore, in an online post, stated, "I'm done", as she asked government authorities to handle the increase in hate, which included threats of rape and death, targetting her and her peers. The journalists in Canada have been facing increase in online abuse, an issue which has now become a global phenomenon. In the wake of the growing online abuse, dozens of media organisations joined hands with reporters to pressurise the government authorities to consider the matter seriously. Global News' reporter Gilmore said that the "free press is under attack”. We won't be silenced. But we need you to stand up for us,” she added. ALSO READ| Canada summons Beijing’s ambassador, issues warning over alleged Chinese police stations The journalists have been complaining of facing catcalls' interruption in their live broadcasts and obscenity-filled online threats. Few journalists are even afraid in leaving their houses and have opted for extraordinary security precautions. The Hill Times' columnist Erica Ifill said, "It's relentless. It ranges from death threats to rape threats to letting us know they're surveilling us." "I'm thinking maybe I should leave journalism," she added. Gilmore's appeal for action was supported by the Canadian Association of Journalists (CAJ). WATCH| Canada seeks to liberalise Euthanasia laws, to allow 'mentally ill' people to die Earlier in December, an open letter was published by 52 broacasters, media organisations and newspapers which warned of a "chilling effect" and appealed political leaders to condemn "any attempts to undermine" the press. "Online harassment is a scourge on our democracy and it needs to stop," stated the CAJ, adding that such "vile abuse" is mostly directed towards women journalists or the journalists who are of different colour or belong to LGBT. Gilmore, along with other journalists, have been said "trash whores" on social media. One post read they "need to be boogaloo'ed the fuck out of Canada," with the use of a term which is linked to the United States' far-right movement. "I'll kill you bitch better watch your back when your (sic) in public," another user stated. Meanwhile, Canadian Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino tweeted: "The abuse that Rachel and other journalists have received -- in particular women and people of color -- is heinous and unacceptable." As per Mendicino's office, the issue has been raised with chiefs of police across the country. (With inputs from agencies)

Canadian journalists implore authorities to tackle online abuse

The first study of its sort has found a link between economic inequality and the use of social networking sites and instant messaging services.&nbsp;

Studies show that teens from disadvantaged backgrounds are more likely to admit to having a social media addiction to Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and other platforms.

Michela Lenzi, an associate professor of psychology at the University of Padua in Italy and the study's principal author, believes that inequality may have detrimental impacts on kids' problematic social media use at the individual, school, and societal levels.

Watch |&nbsp;Social media addiction in Children: Who is responsible?

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The authors claim that the activities of governments may help in minimising the dysfunctional or unusual behaviour of youth.&nbsp;

"Policymakers should create initiatives to lessen disparities and restrict adolescents’ unhealthy social media usage behaviours."

"Social media is used frequently by young people, and both the risks and the benefits to well-being have been extensively studied."

The study's results were published in the peer-reviewed journal Information, Communication, and Society.

Problematic social media use (PSMU) is not officially recognised as a behavioural addiction. However, it is perceived as a health issue for young people.

Also&nbsp;read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology-revolution-boon-or-bane-501129">Is technology boon or bane?</a>

The problem is made worse in schools when there are social and economic gaps amongst the students.

Addiction-like symptoms include "preoccupation with social media, dissatisfaction about a lack of time for its use, feeling bad when not using it, trying but failing to spend less time using it, neglecting other duties to use social media, regular arguments over social media, lying to parents or friends about its use, using social media to escape from negative feelings, and having a severe conflict with family over social media use."

Any child who reported six or more items was identified as having PSMU.

The results, which were based on data collected from more than 179,000 children in 40 countries, according to the authors, show the need for new social media usage regulations that minimize the effects of poverty.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The first study of its sort has found a link between economic inequality and the use of social networking sites and instant messaging services. Studies show that teens from disadvantaged backgrounds are more likely to admit to having a social media addiction to Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and other platforms.

The first study of its sort has found a link between economic inequality and the use of social networking sites and instant messaging services. Studies show that teens from disadvantaged backgrounds are more likely to admit to having a social media addiction to Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and other platforms. Michela Lenzi, an associate professor of psychology at the University of Padua in Italy and the study's principal author, believes that inequality may have detrimental impacts on kids' problematic social media use at the individual, school, and societal levels. Watch | Social media addiction in Children: Who is responsible? The authors claim that the activities of governments may help in minimising the dysfunctional or unusual behaviour of youth. "Policymakers should create initiatives to lessen disparities and restrict adolescents’ unhealthy social media usage behaviours." "Social media is used frequently by young people, and both the risks and the benefits to well-being have been extensively studied." The study's results were published in the peer-reviewed journal Information, Communication, and Society. Problematic social media use (PSMU) is not officially recognised as a behavioural addiction. However, it is perceived as a health issue for young people. Also read | Is technology boon or bane? The problem is made worse in schools when there are social and economic gaps amongst the students. Addiction-like symptoms include "preoccupation with social media, dissatisfaction about a lack of time for its use, feeling bad when not using it, trying but failing to spend less time using it, neglecting other duties to use social media, regular arguments over social media, lying to parents or friends about its use, using social media to escape from negative feelings, and having a severe conflict with family over social media use." Any child who reported six or more items was identified as having PSMU. The results, which were based on data collected from more than 179,000 children in 40 countries, according to the authors, show the need for new social media usage regulations that minimize the effects of poverty. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Children increasingly using social media to escape 'negative feelings': Report

In a move that experts have labelled as evasive, on Monday big-tech companies in New Zealand agreed to forego government regulation in favour of themselves reducing dangerous online content. According to Netsafe, a government-funded internet safety organisation, Twitter, Amazon.com Inc., TikTok, Meta Platforms Inc., and Alphabet-owned Google have all signed a code of conduct called Aotearoa New Zealand Code of Practice for Online Safety and Harms. The organisation's chief Brent Carey said that the signatory companies will follow the code as self-regulation. However, industry lobby group NZTech will be overseeing the compliance.&nbsp;"There are too many Kiwis being bullied, harassed, and abused online, which is why the industry has rallied together to protect users," said Carey.

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As per a Reuters report, the big-tech companies' adherence to obligations, such as decreasing harmful information online, disclosing how they do so, and allowing independent evaluation of results, would be under the supervision of industry lobbying group NZTech.

NZTech CEO Graeme Muller has expressed hope that "the governance framework will enable it to evolve alongside local conditions, while at the same time respecting the fundamental rights of freedom of expression."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-cracks-down-on-cyberbullying-the-crime-can-now-get-you-a-year-in-jail-496033">Japan cracks down on cyberbullying, makes it a punishable offence, but experts aren't too happy. Here's why</a>

However, interest groups demand more information, such as a system for public complaints and punishment for any noncompliance by the corporations.

They further emphasise that an industry organisation, not the government, is in charge of managing the accord.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/roe-v-wade-google-location-history-of-women-remains-vulnerable-youtube-to-censor-false-videos-on-abortion-499712">Roe v. Wade: Google location history of women remains vulnerable; YouTube to censor false videos on abortion</a>

Mandy Henk, CEO of Tohatoha NZ, a non-profit organisation that advocates the social impact of technology, called the move "a weak attempt to preempt regulation – in New Zealand and overseas – by promoting an industry-led model."

(With inputs from agencies)

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You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

In a move that experts have labelled as evasive, on Monday big-tech companies in New Zealand agreed to forego government regulation in favour of themselves reducing dangerous online content.

In a move that experts have labelled as evasive, on Monday big-tech companies in New Zealand agreed to forego government regulation in favour of themselves reducing dangerous online content. According to Netsafe, a government-funded internet safety organisation, Twitter, Amazon.com Inc., TikTok, Meta Platforms Inc., and Alphabet-owned Google have all signed a code of conduct called Aotearoa New Zealand Code of Practice for Online Safety and Harms. The organisation's chief Brent Carey said that the signatory companies will follow the code as self-regulation. However, industry lobby group NZTech will be overseeing the compliance. "There are too many Kiwis being bullied, harassed, and abused online, which is why the industry has rallied together to protect users," said Carey. Watch | Have a phobia? A new app can help fight it As per a Reuters report, the big-tech companies' adherence to obligations, such as decreasing harmful information online, disclosing how they do so, and allowing independent evaluation of results, would be under the supervision of industry lobbying group NZTech. NZTech CEO Graeme Muller has expressed hope that "the governance framework will enable it to evolve alongside local conditions, while at the same time respecting the fundamental rights of freedom of expression." Also read | Japan cracks down on cyberbullying, makes it a punishable offence, but experts aren't too happy. Here's why However, interest groups demand more information, such as a system for public complaints and punishment for any noncompliance by the corporations. They further emphasise that an industry organisation, not the government, is in charge of managing the accord. Also read | Roe v. Wade: Google location history of women remains vulnerable; YouTube to censor false videos on abortion Mandy Henk, CEO of Tohatoha NZ, a non-profit organisation that advocates the social impact of technology, called the move "a weak attempt to preempt regulation – in New Zealand and overseas – by promoting an industry-led model." (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION LIVE HERE: You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Big-tech companies agree to self-regulate harmful content in New Zealand, experts call it a 'weak attempt'

A woman in the United States has sued Facebook's parent company Meta and social media messaging company Snapchat over allegations her daughter committed suicide as she was addicted to the social media platforms.

Selena Rodriguez,11, had committed suicide last year. The woman from Connecticut alleged in the lawsuit that Meta-owned Instagram and Snapchat caused her daughter's death as she was "struggling with the harmful effects of social media".

The lawsuit claimed the social platforms "exploited human psychology" through the use of artificial intelligence. The case has been filed in San Francisco.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/here-is-why-social-media-giant-facebook-is-facing-32-billion-class-action-lawsuit-in-uk-444709">Also Read:&nbsp;Here is why social media giant Facebook is facing $3.2 billion class-action lawsuit in UK</a>

The complaint alleged that Snapchat encouraged "addictive behaviours" as it targeted teenage and young-adult users.

Last year Instagram had announced new measures aimed at protecting young users on its platform. Instagram's CEO&nbsp;Adam Mosseri had appeared before US lawmakers to defend the app which US Senator Richard Blumenthal said had "toxic impacts".

US states had last year announced a joint probe on Instagram's parent company Meta for promoting the app for children despite allegedly knowing its potential harm.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/new-lawsuit-alleges-facebook-and-google-colluded-in-online-ad-sales-445075">Also Read:&nbsp;New lawsuit alleges Facebook and Google colluded in online ad sales</a>

The latest lawsuit against Meta and Snapchat comes after whistleblower Frances Haugen ex-employee at Facebook had alleged that the company prioritised profits over people's safety.

Frances had asserted&nbsp;that Facebook&nbsp;should not be trusted to change its ways as she urged the lawmakers to curb&nbsp;the social media giant's unlimited power on the net.

(With inputs from Agencies)

A woman in the United States has sued Facebook's parent company Meta and social media messaging company Snapchat over allegations her daughter committed suicide as she was addicted to the social media platforms.

A woman in the United States has sued Facebook's parent company Meta and social media messaging company Snapchat over allegations her daughter committed suicide as she was addicted to the social media platforms. Selena Rodriguez,11, had committed suicide last year. The woman from Connecticut alleged in the lawsuit that Meta-owned Instagram and Snapchat caused her daughter's death as she was "struggling with the harmful effects of social media". The lawsuit claimed the social platforms "exploited human psychology" through the use of artificial intelligence. The case has been filed in San Francisco. Also Read: Here is why social media giant Facebook is facing $3.2 billion class-action lawsuit in UK The complaint alleged that Snapchat encouraged "addictive behaviours" as it targeted teenage and young-adult users. Last year Instagram had announced new measures aimed at protecting young users on its platform. Instagram's CEO Adam Mosseri had appeared before US lawmakers to defend the app which US Senator Richard Blumenthal said had "toxic impacts". US states had last year announced a joint probe on Instagram's parent company Meta for promoting the app for children despite allegedly knowing its potential harm. Also Read: New lawsuit alleges Facebook and Google colluded in online ad sales The latest lawsuit against Meta and Snapchat comes after whistleblower Frances Haugen ex-employee at Facebook had alleged that the company prioritised profits over people's safety. Frances had asserted that Facebook should not be trusted to change its ways as she urged the lawmakers to curb the social media giant's unlimited power on the net. (With inputs from Agencies)

'Addictive behaviour': Woman sues Meta, Snapchat over her daughter's suicide

When Jennifer Chen travelled back to her hometown in central China last winter for Lunar New Year, she thought little about Twitter. She had around 100 followers on an account she believed to be anonymous.

While living in China, she retweeted news and videos, and occasionally made comments censored on Chinese platforms, like voicing her support for Hong Kong’s protesters and her solidarity with minorities who have been interned.

It wasn’t much, but it was enough for the authorities to go after her. The police knocked on her parents’ door when she was visiting. She said they had summoned her to the station, questioned her and then commanded her to delete her Twitter posts and account. They continued to track her when she went overseas to study, calling her and her mother to ask if Chen had recently visited any human rights websites.

The Chinese government, which has built an extensive digital infrastructure and security apparatus to control dissent on its own platforms, is going to even greater lengths to extend its internet dragnet to unmask and silence those who criticize the country on Twitter, Facebook and other international social media.

These new investigations, targeting sites blocked inside China, are relying on sophisticated technological methods to expand the reach of Chinese authorities and the list of targets, according to a New York Times examination of government procurement documents and legal records, as well as interviews with one government contractor and six people pressured by the police.

To hunt people, security forces use advanced investigation software, public records and databases to find all their personal information and international social media presence. The operations sometimes target those living beyond China’s borders. Police officers are pursuing dissidents and minor critics like Chen, as well as Chinese people living overseas and even citizens of other nations.

The digital manhunt represents the punitive side of the government’s vast campaign to counter negative portrayals of China. In recent years, the Communist Party has raised bot armies, deployed diplomats and marshalled influencers to push its narratives and drown out criticism. The police have taken it a step further, hounding and silencing those who dare to talk back.

With growing frequency, the authorities are harassing critics both inside and outside China, as well as threatening relatives, in an effort to get them to delete content deemed criminal. One video recording, provided by a Chinese student living in Australia, showed how the police in her hometown had summoned her father, called her with his phone and pushed her to remove her Twitter account.

The new tactics raise questions about the spread of powerful investigative software and bustling data markets that can make it easy to track even the most cautious social media user on international platforms. U.S. regulators have repeatedly blocked Chinese deals to acquire American technology companies over the access they provide to personal data. They have done much less to control the widespread availability of online services that offer location data, social media records and personal information.

For Chinese security forces, the effort is a daring expansion of a remit that previously focused on Chinese platforms and the best-known overseas dissidents. Now, violations as simple as a post of a critical article on Twitter — or in the case of 23-year-old Chen, quoting, “I stand with Hong Kong” — can bring swift repercussions.

Actions against people for speaking out on Twitter and Facebook have increased in China since 2019, according to an online database aggregating them. The database, compiled by an anonymous activist, records cases based on publicly available verdicts, police notices and news reports, although information is limited in China.

“The net has definitely been cast wider overseas during the past year or so,” said Yaxue Cao, editor of ChinaChange.org, a website that covers civil society and human rights. The goal is to encourage already widespread self-censorship among Chinese people on global social media, she said, likening the purging of critics to an overactive lawn mower.

“They cut down the things that look spindly and tall — the most outspoken,” she said. “Then they look around, the taller pieces of grass no longer cover the lower ones. They say, ‘Oh these are problematic too, let’s mow them down again.’”

Chinese security authorities are bringing new technical expertise and funding to the process, according to publicly available procurement documents, police manuals and the government contractor, who is working on overseas internet investigations.

In 2020, when the police in the western province of Gansu sought companies to help monitor international social media, they laid out a grading system. One criterion included a company’s ability to analyze Twitter accounts, including tweets and lists of followers. The police in Shanghai offered $1,500 to a technology firm for each investigation into an overseas account, according to a May procurement document.

Such work often begins with a single tweet or Facebook post that has attracted official attention, according to the contractor, who declined to be named because he was not approved to speak publicly about the work. A specialist in tracking people living in the United States, he said he used voter registries, driver’s license records and hacked databases on the dark web to pinpoint the people behind the posts. Personal photos posted online can be used to infer addresses and friends.

A Chinese police manual and examination for online security professionals detailed and ranked the types of speech crimes that investigators seek out, labelling them with a one, two or three depending on the severity of the violation. One denotes criticism of top leadership or plans to politically organize or protest; two includes the promotion of liberal ideology and attacks on the government; and three, the least urgent, refers to content ranging from libel to pornography. The manual specifically called for monitoring activity on foreign websites.

The contractor said he used the rankings to classify infractions on dossiers he submitted to his bosses in China’s security apparatus. In a sample document reviewed by The Times, he listed key details about each person he looked into, including personal and career information and professional and family connections to China, as well as a statistical analysis of the reach of the person’s account. His approach was corroborated by procurement documents and guides for online security workers.

Over the past year, he said, he had been assigned to investigate a mix of Chinese undergraduates studying in the United States, a Chinese American policy analyst who is a U.S. citizen and journalists who previously worked in China.

Those caught up in the dragnet are often baffled at how the authorities linked them to anonymous social media accounts on international platforms.

The Chinese student in Australia, who provided the video recording from her police questioning, recalled the terror she had felt when she first received a call from her father in China in spring 2020. The police told him to go to a local station over a parody account she had created to mock China’s leader, Xi Jinping. She declined to be named over concerns about reprisals.

In an audio recording she also provided, the police told her via her father’s phone that they knew her account was being used from Australia. Her distraught father instructed her to listen to the police.

Three weeks later, they summoned him again. This time, calling her via video chat, they told her to report to the station when she returned to China and asked how much longer her Australian visa was valid. Fearful, she denied owning the Twitter account but filmed the call and kept the account up. A few months later, Twitter suspended it.

After an inquiry from The Times, Twitter restored the account without explaining why it had taken it down.

Consequences can be steep. When a Chinese student living in Taiwan criticized China this year, he said, both of his parents disappeared for 10 days. His social media accounts within China were also immediately shut down.

The student, who declined to be named out of fear of further reprisals, said he still did not know what had happened to his parents. He doesn’t dare to ask because they told him that local security forces were monitoring them.

“Those who live abroad are also very scared,” said Eric Liu, a censorship analyst at China Digital Times, a website that monitors Chinese internet controls. He said that Chinese users on Twitter were becoming increasingly careful and that many set their accounts to private mode out of fear. Liu's account is public, but he screens new followers, looking for Chinese security officials who might be watching him.

For Chen, the police harassment has continued even after she moved to Europe this fall for graduate school. She has struggled with feelings of shame and powerlessness as she has weighed the importance of expressing her political views against the risks that now entails. It has driven a rift in her relationship with her mother, who was adamant that she change her ways.

Chen said that as long as she held a Chinese passport she would worry about her safety. As a young person with little work experience and less influence, she said it was frustrating to have her voice taken away: “I feel weak, like there’s no way for me to show my strength, no way to do something for others.”

Even so, she said she would continue to post, albeit with more caution.

“Even though it is still dangerous, I have to move forward step by step,” she said. “I can’t just keep censoring myself. I have to stop cowering.”

When Jennifer Chen travelled back to her hometown in central China last winter for Lunar New Year, she thought little about Twitter. She had around 100 followers on an account she believed to be anonymous.

When Jennifer Chen travelled back to her hometown in central China last winter for Lunar New Year, she thought little about Twitter. She had around 100 followers on an account she believed to be anonymous. While living in China, she retweeted news and videos, and occasionally made comments censored on Chinese platforms, like voicing her support for Hong Kong’s protesters and her solidarity with minorities who have been interned. It wasn’t much, but it was enough for the authorities to go after her. The police knocked on her parents’ door when she was visiting. She said they had summoned her to the station, questioned her and then commanded her to delete her Twitter posts and account. They continued to track her when she went overseas to study, calling her and her mother to ask if Chen had recently visited any human rights websites. The Chinese government, which has built an extensive digital infrastructure and security apparatus to control dissent on its own platforms, is going to even greater lengths to extend its internet dragnet to unmask and silence those who criticize the country on Twitter, Facebook and other international social media. These new investigations, targeting sites blocked inside China, are relying on sophisticated technological methods to expand the reach of Chinese authorities and the list of targets, according to a New York Times examination of government procurement documents and legal records, as well as interviews with one government contractor and six people pressured by the police. To hunt people, security forces use advanced investigation software, public records and databases to find all their personal information and international social media presence. The operations sometimes target those living beyond China’s borders. Police officers are pursuing dissidents and minor critics like Chen, as well as Chinese people living overseas and even citizens of other nations. The digital manhunt represents the punitive side of the government’s vast campaign to counter negative portrayals of China. In recent years, the Communist Party has raised bot armies, deployed diplomats and marshalled influencers to push its narratives and drown out criticism. The police have taken it a step further, hounding and silencing those who dare to talk back. With growing frequency, the authorities are harassing critics both inside and outside China, as well as threatening relatives, in an effort to get them to delete content deemed criminal. One video recording, provided by a Chinese student living in Australia, showed how the police in her hometown had summoned her father, called her with his phone and pushed her to remove her Twitter account. The new tactics raise questions about the spread of powerful investigative software and bustling data markets that can make it easy to track even the most cautious social media user on international platforms. U.S. regulators have repeatedly blocked Chinese deals to acquire American technology companies over the access they provide to personal data. They have done much less to control the widespread availability of online services that offer location data, social media records and personal information. For Chinese security forces, the effort is a daring expansion of a remit that previously focused on Chinese platforms and the best-known overseas dissidents. Now, violations as simple as a post of a critical article on Twitter — or in the case of 23-year-old Chen, quoting, “I stand with Hong Kong” — can bring swift repercussions. Actions against people for speaking out on Twitter and Facebook have increased in China since 2019, according to an online database aggregating them. The database, compiled by an anonymous activist, records cases based on publicly available verdicts, police notices and news reports, although information is limited in China. “The net has definitely been cast wider overseas during the past year or so,” said Yaxue Cao, editor of ChinaChange.org, a website that covers civil society and human rights. The goal is to encourage already widespread self-censorship among Chinese people on global social media, she said, likening the purging of critics to an overactive lawn mower. “They cut down the things that look spindly and tall — the most outspoken,” she said. “Then they look around, the taller pieces of grass no longer cover the lower ones. They say, ‘Oh these are problematic too, let’s mow them down again.’” Chinese security authorities are bringing new technical expertise and funding to the process, according to publicly available procurement documents, police manuals and the government contractor, who is working on overseas internet investigations. In 2020, when the police in the western province of Gansu sought companies to help monitor international social media, they laid out a grading system. One criterion included a company’s ability to analyze Twitter accounts, including tweets and lists of followers. The police in Shanghai offered $1,500 to a technology firm for each investigation into an overseas account, according to a May procurement document. Such work often begins with a single tweet or Facebook post that has attracted official attention, according to the contractor, who declined to be named because he was not approved to speak publicly about the work. A specialist in tracking people living in the United States, he said he used voter registries, driver’s license records and hacked databases on the dark web to pinpoint the people behind the posts. Personal photos posted online can be used to infer addresses and friends. A Chinese police manual and examination for online security professionals detailed and ranked the types of speech crimes that investigators seek out, labelling them with a one, two or three depending on the severity of the violation. One denotes criticism of top leadership or plans to politically organize or protest; two includes the promotion of liberal ideology and attacks on the government; and three, the least urgent, refers to content ranging from libel to pornography. The manual specifically called for monitoring activity on foreign websites. The contractor said he used the rankings to classify infractions on dossiers he submitted to his bosses in China’s security apparatus. In a sample document reviewed by The Times, he listed key details about each person he looked into, including personal and career information and professional and family connections to China, as well as a statistical analysis of the reach of the person’s account. His approach was corroborated by procurement documents and guides for online security workers. Over the past year, he said, he had been assigned to investigate a mix of Chinese undergraduates studying in the United States, a Chinese American policy analyst who is a U.S. citizen and journalists who previously worked in China. Those caught up in the dragnet are often baffled at how the authorities linked them to anonymous social media accounts on international platforms. The Chinese student in Australia, who provided the video recording from her police questioning, recalled the terror she had felt when she first received a call from her father in China in spring 2020. The police told him to go to a local station over a parody account she had created to mock China’s leader, Xi Jinping. She declined to be named over concerns about reprisals. In an audio recording she also provided, the police told her via her father’s phone that they knew her account was being used from Australia. Her distraught father instructed her to listen to the police. Three weeks later, they summoned him again. This time, calling her via video chat, they told her to report to the station when she returned to China and asked how much longer her Australian visa was valid. Fearful, she denied owning the Twitter account but filmed the call and kept the account up. A few months later, Twitter suspended it. After an inquiry from The Times, Twitter restored the account without explaining why it had taken it down. Consequences can be steep. When a Chinese student living in Taiwan criticized China this year, he said, both of his parents disappeared for 10 days. His social media accounts within China were also immediately shut down. The student, who declined to be named out of fear of further reprisals, said he still did not know what had happened to his parents. He doesn’t dare to ask because they told him that local security forces were monitoring them. “Those who live abroad are also very scared,” said Eric Liu, a censorship analyst at China Digital Times, a website that monitors Chinese internet controls. He said that Chinese users on Twitter were becoming increasingly careful and that many set their accounts to private mode out of fear. Liu's account is public, but he screens new followers, looking for Chinese security officials who might be watching him. For Chen, the police harassment has continued even after she moved to Europe this fall for graduate school. She has struggled with feelings of shame and powerlessness as she has weighed the importance of expressing her political views against the risks that now entails. It has driven a rift in her relationship with her mother, who was adamant that she change her ways. Chen said that as long as she held a Chinese passport she would worry about her safety. As a young person with little work experience and less influence, she said it was frustrating to have her voice taken away: “I feel weak, like there’s no way for me to show my strength, no way to do something for others.” Even so, she said she would continue to post, albeit with more caution. “Even though it is still dangerous, I have to move forward step by step,” she said. “I can’t just keep censoring myself. I have to stop cowering.”

A Digital manhunt: How Chinese police track critics on Twitter and Facebook

Just minutes after logging into social media accounts, children are potentially bombarded with a host of dangerous content that could lead to self-harm,&nbsp;sexualisation, misleading diets and wrong concepts on weight loss, a disturbing study has revealed.

Through the "endless scroll"&nbsp;features, kids are sucked into a vortex&nbsp;of "targeted"&nbsp;content.

Now a study has shed light on the extent of this dangerous practice.

Social media giants like Facebook, Instagram and Twitter have come under the radar of governments across the globe with new regulation drives.

Many administrations are increasingly growing wary of the role played by these companies in dissemination of content on their platforms, especially in terms of "targeted content".

Targeted content may be defined as that which is created especially for a niche audience in mind to elicit a specific response. Easiest example? Perhaps the little advertisements you see every time on Instagram that weirdly pitch&nbsp;products you may be looking to buy on other portals. You become the target, and the purchase of the advertised product is the expected response.

With each positive response to such target advertisements, the algorithms that pitch personalised content to users become refined and stronger. While adults may be able to successfully understand that they're targets of a marketplace strategy, children may be inadvertently exposed to dangerous products and content.

<img alt="social media" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="baf56a74-91dd-4908-be46-3f060c753eef" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/1_73.jpg" />

Graphic online content 
 
A new research sheds light on the disturbing content targeting designed especially for children. According to researchers at "Revealing Reality" who undertook the project, accounts of minors and children are being fed inappropriate material soon after joining any social media platform.

What is "inappropriate material", you wonder? In this case, it refers to images of self-harm including razors and cuts.&nbsp;

The researchers&nbsp;set up social media accounts that would essentially resemble the online avatar of a child based on information from kids aged between 13-17. They took into account the kind of profiles generally followed by kids and the nature of content they're expected to "like" across platforms.

Just hours into the creation of accounts on social media, these fake accounts representing kids were fed content about diets and sexualisation. In addition, pornography and other explicit content was easily accessible through these accounts.

<img alt="social" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ad03b99f-5819-4152-837f-65f836f713f4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/2_59.jpg" />

Worryingly, just hours after signing up, the accounts were approached by unknown adults, positing that a part of this targeted content attempted to link kids to adults on social media. This experiment was commissioned by 5Rights Foundation and the Children's Commissioner for England, who are urging governments to formulate rules to regulate the design and models of online platforms.

Researchers believe that such content is dangerous especially for kids who are grappling with body image issues, for they're constantly fed unrealistic ideas of an ideal body type.

A 14-year-old girl, Molly Russell took her own life after viewing graphic self-harm and suicidal content online. Her father, Ian Russell told SkyNews that social media companies prioritise profit over safety and is urging governments to bring online content in line with what kids are shown in the physical world.

Facebook, Instagram and TikTok were named explicitly in the report. In response, both Facebook (which also owns Instagram) and TikTok commissioned the same staple response, claiming they have robust models to ensure kids are safe on their platforms.&nbsp;

<img alt="social" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="aa5e249b-d93a-42da-8e25-3fcd225e2f50" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/4_18.jpg" />

Weight-loss frenzy 
 
The same research also revealed how&nbsp;Instagram is flooding the feeds of teenagers with weight-loss content. While accounts created for girls were receiving more content about dieting and losing weight, ghost accounts for boys were constantly fed images of models with unrealistic body types.

In one instance, an account set up for a 17-year-old girl liked a post about dieting which Instagram fed to the account in its "Explore" tab&nbsp;where people discover new content from users they may not be "following". Soon, suggestions in the "Explore" section radically changed to focus on weight loss, with amplification&nbsp;of&nbsp;"distorted body shapes". Similar patterns were noted for accounts created for girls.

Instagram claims that the study only represents a fraction of the teenage experience on its platform, claiming the content shown in the research&nbsp;is the kind which shows up when actively searched by users.

<img alt="social" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9680ef00-6f76-4f09-83c1-475738ee304d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/3_48.jpg" />

United Kingdom has taken the need to protect children from harmful content extremely seriously.

Six weeks from now, social media companies will be required to follow a strict set of rules for age-appropriate content on social media, which the county's Information Commissioner's Office is calling the pursuit of a "child-safe internet".

Starting September, companies will be expected to curate child-friendly content on their platforms by default, instead of the current model which operates under the assumption that every user on their portal is an adult until they state otherwise. With this, the United Kingdom is&nbsp;setting a precedent for other countries where there are no safeguards for children in the online sphere.&nbsp;

Just minutes after logging into social media accounts, children are potentially bombarded with a host of dangerous content that could lead to self-harm, sexualisation, misleading diets and wrong concepts on weight loss, a disturbing study has revealed.

Just minutes after logging into social media accounts, children are potentially bombarded with a host of dangerous content that could lead to self-harm, sexualisation, misleading diets and wrong concepts on weight loss, a disturbing study has revealed. Through the "endless scroll" features, kids are sucked into a vortex of "targeted" content. Now a study has shed light on the extent of this dangerous practice. Social media giants like Facebook, Instagram and Twitter have come under the radar of governments across the globe with new regulation drives. Many administrations are increasingly growing wary of the role played by these companies in dissemination of content on their platforms, especially in terms of "targeted content". Targeted content may be defined as that which is created especially for a niche audience in mind to elicit a specific response. Easiest example? Perhaps the little advertisements you see every time on Instagram that weirdly pitch products you may be looking to buy on other portals. You become the target, and the purchase of the advertised product is the expected response. With each positive response to such target advertisements, the algorithms that pitch personalised content to users become refined and stronger. While adults may be able to successfully understand that they're targets of a marketplace strategy, children may be inadvertently exposed to dangerous products and content. Graphic online content A new research sheds light on the disturbing content targeting designed especially for children. According to researchers at "Revealing Reality" who undertook the project, accounts of minors and children are being fed inappropriate material soon after joining any social media platform. What is "inappropriate material", you wonder? In this case, it refers to images of self-harm including razors and cuts. The researchers set up social media accounts that would essentially resemble the online avatar of a child based on information from kids aged between 13-17. They took into account the kind of profiles generally followed by kids and the nature of content they're expected to "like" across platforms. Just hours into the creation of accounts on social media, these fake accounts representing kids were fed content about diets and sexualisation. In addition, pornography and other explicit content was easily accessible through these accounts. Worryingly, just hours after signing up, the accounts were approached by unknown adults, positing that a part of this targeted content attempted to link kids to adults on social media. This experiment was commissioned by 5Rights Foundation and the Children's Commissioner for England, who are urging governments to formulate rules to regulate the design and models of online platforms. Researchers believe that such content is dangerous especially for kids who are grappling with body image issues, for they're constantly fed unrealistic ideas of an ideal body type. A 14-year-old girl, Molly Russell took her own life after viewing graphic self-harm and suicidal content online. Her father, Ian Russell told SkyNews that social media companies prioritise profit over safety and is urging governments to bring online content in line with what kids are shown in the physical world. Facebook, Instagram and TikTok were named explicitly in the report. In response, both Facebook (which also owns Instagram) and TikTok commissioned the same staple response, claiming they have robust models to ensure kids are safe on their platforms. Weight-loss frenzy The same research also revealed how Instagram is flooding the feeds of teenagers with weight-loss content. While accounts created for girls were receiving more content about dieting and losing weight, ghost accounts for boys were constantly fed images of models with unrealistic body types. In one instance, an account set up for a 17-year-old girl liked a post about dieting which Instagram fed to the account in its "Explore" tab where people discover new content from users they may not be "following". Soon, suggestions in the "Explore" section radically changed to focus on weight loss, with amplification of "distorted body shapes". Similar patterns were noted for accounts created for girls. Instagram claims that the study only represents a fraction of the teenage experience on its platform, claiming the content shown in the research is the kind which shows up when actively searched by users. United Kingdom has taken the need to protect children from harmful content extremely seriously. Six weeks from now, social media companies will be required to follow a strict set of rules for age-appropriate content on social media, which the county's Information Commissioner's Office is calling the pursuit of a "child-safe internet". Starting September, companies will be expected to curate child-friendly content on their platforms by default, instead of the current model which operates under the assumption that every user on their portal is an adult until they state otherwise. With this, the United Kingdom is setting a precedent for other countries where there are no safeguards for children in the online sphere.

This is how social media giants are feeding dangerous content to children

With the aim of keeping conversations civil, social media platform, Facebook, has tightened its automobile tools to help the group moderators in keeping group chats civil and non-violent.

Facebook has launched a new feature "Admin Assist"&nbsp;which allows the group moderators to set criteria for what will be considered as non-acceptable in the group. With the help of the set criteria, the automated bots will be able to automatically check content for any violations and flag it to the moderators accordingly.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-says-it-could-pay-more-corporate-tax-after-g7-decision-389681" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-says-it-could-pay-more-corporate-tax-after-g7-decision-389681&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi06Lf0y5zxAhXawzgGHb3mA88QFjAJegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1t_zO_xR8g-DRLRC1HmzZN" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-says-it-could-pay-more-corporate-tax-after-g7-decision-389681" target="_blank">Facebook&nbsp;says it could pay more corporate tax after G7 decision</a>

This feature can also help the moderators eliminate comments with links of unwanted content, ask members to be part of specific and related groups before commenting on burning issues and even slow down heated conversations.

"What these tools do is automate things admins did manually, but not expose anything they didn't have access to before,"&nbsp;said Facebook engineering vice president Tom Alison.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/pink-floyd-roger-waters-will-not-let-facebook-ceo-idiot-mark-zuckerberg-use-their-songs-391322">Pink Floyd's Roger Waters will not let Facebook CEO 'idiot' Mark Zuckerberg use their songs</a>

Facebook is also testing a feature through which artificial intelligence (AI) can judge when a conversation is turning chaotic and heated, on the basis of the speed and tone of the replies/comments, and then accordingly alert the moderators.

"The AI looks at things associated with threads that have conflicts," Alison said.

With the aim of keeping conversations civil, social media platform, Facebook, has tightened its automobile tools to help the group moderators in keeping group chats civil and non-violent.

With the aim of keeping conversations civil, social media platform, Facebook, has tightened its automobile tools to help the group moderators in keeping group chats civil and non-violent. Facebook has launched a new feature "Admin Assist" which allows the group moderators to set criteria for what will be considered as non-acceptable in the group. With the help of the set criteria, the automated bots will be able to automatically check content for any violations and flag it to the moderators accordingly. Also read | Facebook says it could pay more corporate tax after G7 decision This feature can also help the moderators eliminate comments with links of unwanted content, ask members to be part of specific and related groups before commenting on burning issues and even slow down heated conversations. "What these tools do is automate things admins did manually, but not expose anything they didn't have access to before," said Facebook engineering vice president Tom Alison. Also read | Pink Floyd's Roger Waters will not let Facebook CEO 'idiot' Mark Zuckerberg use their songs Facebook is also testing a feature through which artificial intelligence (AI) can judge when a conversation is turning chaotic and heated, on the basis of the speed and tone of the replies/comments, and then accordingly alert the moderators. "The AI looks at things associated with threads that have conflicts," Alison said.

Facebook launches 'admin assist' to help keep group chats civil

English Championship side Swansea City announced on Thursday they were boycotting social media for a week in protest against online abuse and discrimination, with Birmingham and Rangers taking similar steps.

Three Swansea players -- Yan Dhanda, Ben Cabango and Jamal Lowe -- have all been racially abused online recently.

Liverpool trio Trent Alexander-Arnold, Naby Keita and Sadio Mane became the latest in a long list of players to be targeted after Tuesday's Champions League quarter-final first-leg loss to Real Madrid.

Swansea have written to Facebook and Twitter calling for tougher punishments for those found guilty of posting "cowardly" abuse.

"From 5:00 pm (1600 GMT) today all first-team players, those in the academy professional phase, Swansea City Ladies, Community Trust, senior club staff and official club channels (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, Snapchat, YouTube and TikTok) will not post any content for a period of seven days," the club said in a statement.

"As a close and diverse group of players, this is something we all feel extremely passionate about," said Swansea captain Matt Grimes.

"Three of our squad have been racially abused in recent weeks and, as a squad and club, we wanted to take this stance as we again call on those at the forefront of social media companies to implement the change that is needed now and in the future."

Fellow Championship side Birmingham and Scottish Premiership team Rangers later announced they were also launching week-long boycotts.

"The club stands in solidarity with Swansea City Football Club who first announced their intention to operate a social media blackout earlier today, with this fight going beyond sporting rivalries and one that must be tackled in unison," said a statement on Birmingham's website.

Rangers said they were concerned with the "daily racist abuse our players have to endure", adding there was concern that levels of hate were spiralling out of control.

English Championship side Swansea City announced on Thursday they were boycotting social media for a week in protest against online abuse and discrimination, with Birmingham and Rangers taking similar steps.

English Championship side Swansea City announced on Thursday they were boycotting social media for a week in protest against online abuse and discrimination, with Birmingham and Rangers taking similar steps. Three Swansea players -- Yan Dhanda, Ben Cabango and Jamal Lowe -- have all been racially abused online recently. Liverpool trio Trent Alexander-Arnold, Naby Keita and Sadio Mane became the latest in a long list of players to be targeted after Tuesday's Champions League quarter-final first-leg loss to Real Madrid. Swansea have written to Facebook and Twitter calling for tougher punishments for those found guilty of posting "cowardly" abuse. "From 5:00 pm (1600 GMT) today all first-team players, those in the academy professional phase, Swansea City Ladies, Community Trust, senior club staff and official club channels (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, Snapchat, YouTube and TikTok) will not post any content for a period of seven days," the club said in a statement. "As a close and diverse group of players, this is something we all feel extremely passionate about," said Swansea captain Matt Grimes. "Three of our squad have been racially abused in recent weeks and, as a squad and club, we wanted to take this stance as we again call on those at the forefront of social media companies to implement the change that is needed now and in the future." Fellow Championship side Birmingham and Scottish Premiership team Rangers later announced they were also launching week-long boycotts. "The club stands in solidarity with Swansea City Football Club who first announced their intention to operate a social media blackout earlier today, with this fight going beyond sporting rivalries and one that must be tackled in unison," said a statement on Birmingham's website. Rangers said they were concerned with the "daily racist abuse our players have to endure", adding there was concern that levels of hate were spiralling out of control.

Rangers join Swansea social media boycott to tackle online abuse

The England squad are not planning a social media boycott to tackle online racism and bullying but may discuss it if the problem continues, midfielder Declan Rice said.

England coach Gareth Southgate said players should consider joining former France international Thierry Henry in quitting social media to avoid online abuse.

Henry, 43, last week deleted his social media accounts to protest against platforms for not taking action against anonymous account holders who are guilty of racism and bullying.

"There's been way too much, within the last year especially, with social media abuse, things being said," West Ham United midfielder Rice said.

"For someone like me who runs my own account and has that interaction and love with the fans ... I don't have any problems with social media. I think it's important that a player like me can have that interaction with fans.

"But ... Henry has obviously boycotted. I've seen (Gareth) Bale come out and say something. Maybe it's a decision that may be spoken about in the future between the players, but at the moment, no."

England, who top their 2022 World Cup qualifying group with six points after two games, host Poland later on Wednesday.

The England squad are not planning a social media boycott to tackle online racism and bullying but may discuss it if the problem continues, midfielder Declan Rice said.

The England squad are not planning a social media boycott to tackle online racism and bullying but may discuss it if the problem continues, midfielder Declan Rice said. England coach Gareth Southgate said players should consider joining former France international Thierry Henry in quitting social media to avoid online abuse. Henry, 43, last week deleted his social media accounts to protest against platforms for not taking action against anonymous account holders who are guilty of racism and bullying. "There's been way too much, within the last year especially, with social media abuse, things being said," West Ham United midfielder Rice said. "For someone like me who runs my own account and has that interaction and love with the fans ... I don't have any problems with social media. I think it's important that a player like me can have that interaction with fans. "But ... Henry has obviously boycotted. I've seen (Gareth) Bale come out and say something. Maybe it's a decision that may be spoken about in the future between the players, but at the moment, no." England, who top their 2022 World Cup qualifying group with six points after two games, host Poland later on Wednesday.

England not planning social media boycott, says Rice