A new trend seems to have become popular on TikTok nowadays. It is called ‘Unboxing by Husband’. &nbsp;

The trend, which emerged earlier this month, has become popular among Muslim newlyweds in Malaysia. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In the trend, the couples can be witnessed in their bridal outfits on their wedding night in front of a mirror. The groom removes bride’s head accessories. Most of the women can be seen in hijabs in these clips. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-provinces-officials-fudged-death-toll-of-flood-disaster-last-year-says-central-govt-446825" hreflang="en">Chinese province's officials fudged death toll of flood disaster last year, says central govt</a>

‘Unboxing by Husband’ or ‘Unboxing Brides’ seems to have become a new way to mark a marriage. Through it, the couples announce to whoever is watching that they are legally married now.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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unboxing by husband <a href="https://t.co/pzUhMZQaDB">pic.twitter.com/pzUhMZQaDB</a>
— terpaling (@terp4ling) <a href="https://twitter.com/terp4ling/status/1480454473730256896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 10, 2022</a></blockquote>
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This seems to have not gone down well with some sections of society, including religious leaders. There have been calls for ban on such gesture of love. &nbsp;

Ili Aqilah, a Malay Muslim newlywed bride, said, “I love TikTok and I’ve learned so much from the platform but this is such a weird trend. You overshare, and I am not going to do it.” &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-beijings-action-us-suspends-more-than-40-passenger-flights-to-china-operated-by-chinese-carriers-446793" hreflang="en">After Beijing's action, US suspends more than 40 passenger flights to China operated by Chinese carriers</a>

She feels it is “TMI” – too much information as it reveals too many private details. &nbsp;

Mufti Dr Mohd Asri Zainul Abidin, who lives in the state of Perlis on Malaysia’s west coast, said a man filming acts like removing wife’s head accessories is similar to “selling the wife”. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A new trend seems to have become popular on TikTok nowadays. It is called ‘Unboxing by Husband’. The trend, which emerged earlier this month, has become popular among Muslim newlyweds in Malaysia.

A new trend seems to have become popular on TikTok nowadays. It is called ‘Unboxing by Husband’. The trend, which emerged earlier this month, has become popular among Muslim newlyweds in Malaysia. In the trend, the couples can be witnessed in their bridal outfits on their wedding night in front of a mirror. The groom removes bride’s head accessories. Most of the women can be seen in hijabs in these clips. Also Read: Chinese province's officials fudged death toll of flood disaster last year, says central govt ‘Unboxing by Husband’ or ‘Unboxing Brides’ seems to have become a new way to mark a marriage. Through it, the couples announce to whoever is watching that they are legally married now. unboxing by husband pic.twitter.com/pzUhMZQaDB — terpaling (@terp4ling) January 10, 2022 × This seems to have not gone down well with some sections of society, including religious leaders. There have been calls for ban on such gesture of love. Ili Aqilah, a Malay Muslim newlywed bride, said, “I love TikTok and I’ve learned so much from the platform but this is such a weird trend. You overshare, and I am not going to do it.” Also Read: After Beijing's action, US suspends more than 40 passenger flights to China operated by Chinese carriers She feels it is “TMI” – too much information as it reveals too many private details. Mufti Dr Mohd Asri Zainul Abidin, who lives in the state of Perlis on Malaysia’s west coast, said a man filming acts like removing wife’s head accessories is similar to “selling the wife”. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Unboxing by Husband’: Viral trend on TikTok in Malaysia faces backlash

A Pakistani TikTok star has landed into trouble and is facing a money-laundering probe after she claimed of carrying a “heavy amount of cash” while travelling to UK.

According to the Federal Board of Revenue’s website, a passenger is allowed to bring any amount of foreign currency to Pakistan, but has limited the amount of exchanging domestic currencies to foreign ones up to $10,000.

In the video, TikTok star Hareem Shah was purportedly seen with two stacks of the British pound, while asking others to carry more cash as the Pakistani currency had been depreciating compared to euros and dollars.

"The government had promised to increase the (value) of the currency, increase the (value) of the [Pakistani] passport, but they didn't do anything. They could only talk," she said.

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Hareem Shah reaches London <a href="https://t.co/aehGbDLGJC">pic.twitter.com/aehGbDLGJC</a>
— Murtaza Ali Shah (@MurtazaViews) <a href="https://twitter.com/MurtazaViews/status/1481217721060802560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Shah said that every Pakistanis feel sad whenever they exchange rupees for euros or dollars.

The TikTok celebrity then went on to say that those intending to travel with significant sums of money should be “careful”. “They catch you,” she said, adding that there was a difference in her case.

Shortly after her video went viral, originally shared on social media platform Snack Video, the Federal Investigation Agency said that a money-laundering inquiry had been initiated against her, reports the Dawn newspaper.

"The FIA has decided to write a letter to the UK's National Crime Agency to take action against Hareem Shah whose real name is Fiza Husain,” the statement said

According to the statement, Shah had travelled from Karachi international airport to Doha, Qatar on January 10.

(With inputs from agencies)

A Pakistani TikTok star has landed into trouble and is facing a money-laundering probe after she claimed of carrying a “heavy amount of cash” while travelling to UK.

A Pakistani TikTok star has landed into trouble and is facing a money-laundering probe after she claimed of carrying a “heavy amount of cash” while travelling to UK. According to the Federal Board of Revenue’s website, a passenger is allowed to bring any amount of foreign currency to Pakistan, but has limited the amount of exchanging domestic currencies to foreign ones up to $10,000. In the video, TikTok star Hareem Shah was purportedly seen with two stacks of the British pound, while asking others to carry more cash as the Pakistani currency had been depreciating compared to euros and dollars. "The government had promised to increase the (value) of the currency, increase the (value) of the [Pakistani] passport, but they didn't do anything. They could only talk," she said. Hareem Shah reaches London pic.twitter.com/aehGbDLGJC — Murtaza Ali Shah (@MurtazaViews) January 12, 2022 × Shah said that every Pakistanis feel sad whenever they exchange rupees for euros or dollars. The TikTok celebrity then went on to say that those intending to travel with significant sums of money should be “careful”. “They catch you,” she said, adding that there was a difference in her case. Shortly after her video went viral, originally shared on social media platform Snack Video, the Federal Investigation Agency said that a money-laundering inquiry had been initiated against her, reports the Dawn newspaper. "The FIA has decided to write a letter to the UK's National Crime Agency to take action against Hareem Shah whose real name is Fiza Husain,” the statement said According to the statement, Shah had travelled from Karachi international airport to Doha, Qatar on January 10. (With inputs from agencies)

Money laundering probe against Pakistani TikTok star who boasted of carrying huge cash while travelling

A Chinese man's hand-drawn map of his childhood village helped him find his mother after getting kidnapped as a boy more than 30 years ago.

Known as Li Jingwei, the man had posted the map online in a bid to find his biological mother.

The 37-year-old had been lured away from his home and sold to a child trafficking ring when he was just four years old.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-boat-accident-billionaires-51-million-superyacht-sinks-gas-tanker-in-bahamas-441785" hreflang="en">In boat accident, billionaire’s&nbsp;$51 million superyacht sinks gas tanker in Bahamas</a>

Jingwei currently lives in Guangdong Province of China but had forgotten the names of his parents.

He took to Douyin, China's version of TikTok, and posted a video showing the map he had drawn from his memory. It showed features such as a school, a bamboo forest, and a small pond.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-man-enters-7-eleven-for-chocolate-milk-exits-with-1-million-platinum-jackpot-441792" hreflang="en">US man enters 7-Eleven for chocolate milk, exits with $1 million platinum jackpot</a>

He said in the video, ''I am a man who's finding his home. I was taken to Henan by a bald neighbour around 1989. This is a map of my home area that I have drawn from memory.''

The video went viral and along with the help of authorities his hometown was identified as Zhaotong, a mountainous city in Yunnan.

The police matched it to a small village and a woman whose son had disappeared. The theory was confirmed after DNA tests.

"Thirty-three years of waiting, countless nights of yearning, and finally a map hand-drawn from memory, this is the moment of perfect release after 13 days,"&nbsp;Jingwei wrote on his Douyin profile after the reunion with his mother.

"Thank you, everyone, who has helped me reunite with my family."

(With inputs from agencies)

A Chinese man's hand-drawn map of his childhood village helped him find his mother after getting kidnapped as a boy more than 30 years ago. Known as Li Jingwei, the man had posted the map online in a bid to find his biological mother.

A Chinese man's hand-drawn map of his childhood village helped him find his mother after getting kidnapped as a boy more than 30 years ago. Known as Li Jingwei, the man had posted the map online in a bid to find his biological mother. The 37-year-old had been lured away from his home and sold to a child trafficking ring when he was just four years old. Also read | In boat accident, billionaire’s $51 million superyacht sinks gas tanker in Bahamas Jingwei currently lives in Guangdong Province of China but had forgotten the names of his parents. He took to Douyin, China's version of TikTok, and posted a video showing the map he had drawn from his memory. It showed features such as a school, a bamboo forest, and a small pond. Also read | US man enters 7-Eleven for chocolate milk, exits with $1 million platinum jackpot He said in the video, ''I am a man who's finding his home. I was taken to Henan by a bald neighbour around 1989. This is a map of my home area that I have drawn from memory.'' The video went viral and along with the help of authorities his hometown was identified as Zhaotong, a mountainous city in Yunnan. The police matched it to a small village and a woman whose son had disappeared. The theory was confirmed after DNA tests. "Thirty-three years of waiting, countless nights of yearning, and finally a map hand-drawn from memory, this is the moment of perfect release after 13 days," Jingwei wrote on his Douyin profile after the reunion with his mother. "Thank you, everyone, who has helped me reunite with my family." (With inputs from agencies)

This man's hand-drawn map of village helped him find his mother after getting kidnapped as a boy

An armed 25-year-old man was arrested who was on his way to the White House carrying a rifle and a ‘hit list’ which had names of President Joe Biden and the country’s medical advisor Dr Anthony Fauci.

According to reports, Kuachua Brillion Xiong had an AR-15–type rifle, ammunition, and body armour when he was pulled over for driving aggressively on December 21 in Iowa state.

Xiong, who had the White House address on a GPS device, said he was on his way to “combat evil demons,” according to federal court records that were released on Tuesday.

He told investigators that he had found a “weak spot” in the building that would allow him to get inside.

During interrogation, Xiong said he was “the only person remaining who can free the United States of evil and it is necessary for him to kill those in position of power.”

According to court records, Xiong had compiled the “hit list” of targets from TikTok videos.

Apart from Biden and Fauci, the list also had names of former presidents Bill Clinton and Obama and Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg.

“When concluding the interview, Xiong stated that nothing would stop him from carrying out his plan of gaining access to the White House and killing the persons on his hit list,” the complaint said.

Xiong also told the investigators that if released from custody he would immediately resume traveling to the White House in Washington, DC and “do whatever it takes to complete his plan”, according to the court records.

Xiong is scheduled to appear in federal court for a detention hearing on Thursday (US time), with the federal government arguing he should remain in custody for making a threat against a former president, which is a federal crime, the Times reported.

(With inputs from agencies)

An armed 25-year-old man was arrested who was on his way to the White House carrying a rifle and a ‘hit list’ which had names of President Joe Biden and the country’s medical advisor Dr Anthony Fauci.

An armed 25-year-old man was arrested who was on his way to the White House carrying a rifle and a ‘hit list’ which had names of President Joe Biden and the country’s medical advisor Dr Anthony Fauci. According to reports, Kuachua Brillion Xiong had an AR-15–type rifle, ammunition, and body armour when he was pulled over for driving aggressively on December 21 in Iowa state. Xiong, who had the White House address on a GPS device, said he was on his way to “combat evil demons,” according to federal court records that were released on Tuesday. He told investigators that he had found a “weak spot” in the building that would allow him to get inside. During interrogation, Xiong said he was “the only person remaining who can free the United States of evil and it is necessary for him to kill those in position of power.” According to court records, Xiong had compiled the “hit list” of targets from TikTok videos. Apart from Biden and Fauci, the list also had names of former presidents Bill Clinton and Obama and Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg. “When concluding the interview, Xiong stated that nothing would stop him from carrying out his plan of gaining access to the White House and killing the persons on his hit list,” the complaint said. Xiong also told the investigators that if released from custody he would immediately resume traveling to the White House in Washington, DC and “do whatever it takes to complete his plan”, according to the court records. Xiong is scheduled to appear in federal court for a detention hearing on Thursday (US time), with the federal government arguing he should remain in custody for making a threat against a former president, which is a federal crime, the Times reported. (With inputs from agencies)

25-year-old armed man with ‘hit list’ of Biden, Fauci arrested on way to White House

One of the Queen’s Royal Guards trampled over a kid who got in his way during a routine patrol at the Tower of London. A video of the incident has gone viral.

The clip purportedly shows a kid accidentally stepping into the path of one of the two guards who were marching in unison in front of a small crowd.

However, instead of avoiding the kid, one of the guards shouts, ‘Make way!’ and then steps over the boy and carries on past the tourists.

Fortunately, the boy immediately got back up with no visible injuries.

According to reports, the kid was with his family who was spending their first day visiting England.

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🚨 | WATCH: A kid gets trampled by the queen’s guards <a href="https://t.co/xzv7W8I2F5">pic.twitter.com/xzv7W8I2F5</a>
— News For All (@NewsForAIl) <a href="https://twitter.com/NewsForAIl/status/1476195393235001348?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The video, which was initially shared on TikTok then on Twitter and reportedly viewed over 1.2 million times, has left people divided over the incident.

While one view argues that the guards could have applied common sense and avoided knocking down the kid, the other view contends that the blame should fall on the parents who were allegedly ignorant of the surroundings.

Following the incident, the Ministry of Defence issued a statement to the Daily Mail Online.

“We are aware of an incident at the Tower of London earlier today during a routine patrol. The Guardsmen on duty warned members of the public that a patrol was approaching but the child, unfortunately, ran out in front of the soldier unexpectedly.”

“The soldier tried to step over the child and continued on his duty. Following the incident, the soldier checked on the child and was reassured that all was well.”

(With inputs from agencies)

One of the Queen’s Royal Guards trampled over a kid who got in his way during a routine patrol at the Tower of London. A video of the incident has gone viral. The clip purportedly shows a kid accidentally stepping into the path of one of the two guards who were marching in unison in front of a small crowd.

One of the Queen’s Royal Guards trampled over a kid who got in his way during a routine patrol at the Tower of London. A video of the incident has gone viral. The clip purportedly shows a kid accidentally stepping into the path of one of the two guards who were marching in unison in front of a small crowd. However, instead of avoiding the kid, one of the guards shouts, ‘Make way!’ and then steps over the boy and carries on past the tourists. Fortunately, the boy immediately got back up with no visible injuries. According to reports, the kid was with his family who was spending their first day visiting England. 🚨 | WATCH: A kid gets trampled by the queen’s guards pic.twitter.com/xzv7W8I2F5 — News For All (@NewsForAIl) December 29, 2021 × The video, which was initially shared on TikTok then on Twitter and reportedly viewed over 1.2 million times, has left people divided over the incident. While one view argues that the guards could have applied common sense and avoided knocking down the kid, the other view contends that the blame should fall on the parents who were allegedly ignorant of the surroundings. Following the incident, the Ministry of Defence issued a statement to the Daily Mail Online. “We are aware of an incident at the Tower of London earlier today during a routine patrol. The Guardsmen on duty warned members of the public that a patrol was approaching but the child, unfortunately, ran out in front of the soldier unexpectedly.” “The soldier tried to step over the child and continued on his duty. Following the incident, the soldier checked on the child and was reassured that all was well.” (With inputs from agencies)

Queen’s Royal Guard tries to step over kid after knocking him down, video goes viral

Several school districts across the US were shut after there were shooting threats made using the social media platform TikTok. The social media company said that it has found no evidence of such and is working to remove videos.&nbsp;

Schools in states including California, Missouri, Texas and Minnesota cancelled classes while schools in Arizona, New York, Illinois, Connecticut and Pennsylvania increased police presence.&nbsp;

A statement issued by Tooele country district school said, "We have been made aware of another nation-wide trend, where students post a threat regarding gun violence in schools on social media. The school district is taking each threat that has been reported seriously and is involving law enforcement to help investigate each situation."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/michigan-school-shooting-15-year-old-student-ethan-crumbley-charged-as-an-adult-433393">Also read |&nbsp;Michigan school shooting: 15-year-old student, Ethan Crumbley, charged as an adult</a>

These threats come at a time when US school have been a target of such shootings. According to a report by Education Week, there have been 32 shootings on school campuses in 2021. Such threats have been a major cause of anxiety among parents, students and educators.&nbsp;

In order to ensure safety and keep the people updated, TikTok took to its official Twitter handle and said, "Local authorities, the FBI, and DHS have confirmed there's no credible threat, so we're working to remove alarmist warnings that violate our misinformation policy. If we did find promotion of violence on our platform, we'd remove and report it to law enforcement."

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We handle even rumored threats with utmost seriousness, which is why we're working with law enforcement to look into warnings about potential violence at schools even though we have not found evidence of such threats originating or spreading via TikTok.
— TikTokComms (@TikTokComms) <a href="https://twitter.com/TikTokComms/status/1471572096111239175?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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(With inputs from agencies)

Several school districts across the US were shut after there were shooting threats made using the social media platform TikTok. The social media company said that it has found no evidence of such and is working to remove videos.

Several school districts across the US were shut after there were shooting threats made using the social media platform TikTok. The social media company said that it has found no evidence of such and is working to remove videos. Schools in states including California, Missouri, Texas and Minnesota cancelled classes while schools in Arizona, New York, Illinois, Connecticut and Pennsylvania increased police presence. A statement issued by Tooele country district school said, "We have been made aware of another nation-wide trend, where students post a threat regarding gun violence in schools on social media. The school district is taking each threat that has been reported seriously and is involving law enforcement to help investigate each situation." Also read | Michigan school shooting: 15-year-old student, Ethan Crumbley, charged as an adult These threats come at a time when US school have been a target of such shootings. According to a report by Education Week, there have been 32 shootings on school campuses in 2021. Such threats have been a major cause of anxiety among parents, students and educators. In order to ensure safety and keep the people updated, TikTok took to its official Twitter handle and said, "Local authorities, the FBI, and DHS have confirmed there's no credible threat, so we're working to remove alarmist warnings that violate our misinformation policy. If we did find promotion of violence on our platform, we'd remove and report it to law enforcement." We handle even rumored threats with utmost seriousness, which is why we're working with law enforcement to look into warnings about potential violence at schools even though we have not found evidence of such threats originating or spreading via TikTok. — TikTokComms (@TikTokComms) December 16, 2021 × (With inputs from agencies)

US schools cancel classes due to shooting threats on TikTok

A video of a dancing cactus toy rapping about the use of drugs and suicide has gone viral on social media.

People have been posting their reactions to the video on TikTok and the microblogging platform Twitter.

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Dancing cactus squad! Want <a href="https://t.co/FDzLLUGHAx">pic.twitter.com/FDzLLUGHAx</a>
— Giggles (@LaughOLTimeOut) <a href="https://twitter.com/LaughOLTimeOut/status/1465356546213306373?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 29, 2021</a></blockquote>
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these repeating dancing cacti give me life <a href="https://t.co/tJMyyAAU2y">pic.twitter.com/tJMyyAAU2y</a>
— festive nina 🎄 (@OneThyFox) <a href="https://twitter.com/OneThyFox/status/1464994589195001862?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 28, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Been wanting to teach your cats Salsa Dancing but the lessons are just too expensive? 
 
Act now! The Dancing Cactus will show them all the moves for 3 easy payments of $19.99 + shipping and handling 
 
volume UP! 😂🎶 <a href="https://t.co/ireFETHjAA">pic.twitter.com/ireFETHjAA</a>
— Il Gatto Nero (@gattocciao) <a href="https://twitter.com/gattocciao/status/1465112506138075144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 29, 2021</a></blockquote>
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This is the dancing cactus that Walmart banned because it sings about doing cocaine in Polish. I bought it for my friend for Christmas. I think he'll get a good laugh out of it. <a href="https://t.co/VODWDJTIiK">pic.twitter.com/VODWDJTIiK</a>
— Maschinist 🦇💀 (@Rivitheadz) <a href="https://twitter.com/Rivitheadz/status/1465380580262961153?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 29, 2021</a></blockquote>
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However, Walmart, the seller of the toy, had to remove it from the market after irate customers claimed it used expletives and talked about suicide.

It issued a statement saying, ''These items are sold by a third-party seller on our marketplace website. We are removing the items while we look into this complaint further.''

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/looking-for-friendly-faces-this-firm-will-pay-200000-for-right-to-your-face-on-its-robots-432921" hreflang="en">Looking for 'friendly faces': This firm will pay $200,000 for right to your face on its robots</a>

It happened after a grandmother living in Ontario discovered the supposedly ''toddler-friendly'' toy to her 15-month-old granddaughter.

"It just so happens that I am Polish and when I started to listen to the songs and I heard the words," she said. "I was in shock. I thought what is this some kind of joke?"

The toy has been produced by a Chinese manufacturer and the song has been sung by Polish Rapper Cypis.

He has denied any knowledge of the use of his song by the company. His spokesman&nbsp;Zbigniew Florek said the rapper is ''disgusted'' by the incident.

A video of a dancing cactus toy rapping about the use of drugs and suicide has gone viral on social media. People have been posting their reactions to the video on TikTok and the microblogging platform Twitter.

A video of a dancing cactus toy rapping about the use of drugs and suicide has gone viral on social media. People have been posting their reactions to the video on TikTok and the microblogging platform Twitter. Dancing cactus squad! Want pic.twitter.com/FDzLLUGHAx — Giggles (@LaughOLTimeOut) November 29, 2021 × these repeating dancing cacti give me life pic.twitter.com/tJMyyAAU2y — festive nina 🎄 (@OneThyFox) November 28, 2021 × Been wanting to teach your cats Salsa Dancing but the lessons are just too expensive? Act now! The Dancing Cactus will show them all the moves for 3 easy payments of $19.99 + shipping and handling volume UP! 😂🎶 pic.twitter.com/ireFETHjAA — Il Gatto Nero (@gattocciao) November 29, 2021 × This is the dancing cactus that Walmart banned because it sings about doing cocaine in Polish. I bought it for my friend for Christmas. I think he'll get a good laugh out of it. pic.twitter.com/VODWDJTIiK — Maschinist 🦇💀 (@Rivitheadz) November 29, 2021 × However, Walmart, the seller of the toy, had to remove it from the market after irate customers claimed it used expletives and talked about suicide. It issued a statement saying, ''These items are sold by a third-party seller on our marketplace website. We are removing the items while we look into this complaint further.'' Also read | Looking for 'friendly faces': This firm will pay $200,000 for right to your face on its robots It happened after a grandmother living in Ontario discovered the supposedly ''toddler-friendly'' toy to her 15-month-old granddaughter. "It just so happens that I am Polish and when I started to listen to the songs and I heard the words," she said. "I was in shock. I thought what is this some kind of joke?" The toy has been produced by a Chinese manufacturer and the song has been sung by Polish Rapper Cypis. He has denied any knowledge of the use of his song by the company. His spokesman Zbigniew Florek said the rapper is ''disgusted'' by the incident.

Watch | This dancing cactus toy was a viral hit. Then someone heard it sing about drug use and suicide

TikTok seems to be going through a rough phase in Pakistan. In last 15 months, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority has imposed and lifted ban for the fourth time. &nbsp;

This time, the ban has been lifted on TikTok after four months. The Pakistan's media regulating authority announced on Friday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/extremism-in-pak-not-rooted-in-madrasas-but-schools-colleges-says-minister-430533" hreflang="en">Extremism in Pak not rooted in madrasas, but schools, colleges, says Minister</a>

The development comes as the popular Chinese video-sharing service made assurances that it would control the spread of indecent content. &nbsp;

Considering the scenario, it cannot be confirmed that the app will be banned again or not. &nbsp;

In October 2020, TikTok was first blocked in Pakistan. The action was taken over complaints about allegedly 'immoral, obscene and vulgar' content on the app. &nbsp;

The app has become quite popular among teens and young adults in the country. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-frees-hardline-islamist-under-a-deal-to-end-violence-430353" hreflang="en">Pakistan frees hardline Islamist under a deal to end violence</a>

In a statement on Twitter, the regulatory agency said that TikTok had assured Pakistan it would also block users, who upload 'unlawful content’. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The app, which is owned by China's ByteDance, has been downloaded around 39 million times in Pakistan. &nbsp;

Pakistan, which has strong relations with China, has been asking TikTok to come up with an effective mechanism to control unlawful content. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

TikTok seems to be going through a rough phase in Pakistan. In last 15 months, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority has imposed and lifted ban for the fourth time.

TikTok seems to be going through a rough phase in Pakistan. In last 15 months, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority has imposed and lifted ban for the fourth time. This time, the ban has been lifted on TikTok after four months. The Pakistan's media regulating authority announced on Friday. Also Read: Extremism in Pak not rooted in madrasas, but schools, colleges, says Minister The development comes as the popular Chinese video-sharing service made assurances that it would control the spread of indecent content. Considering the scenario, it cannot be confirmed that the app will be banned again or not. In October 2020, TikTok was first blocked in Pakistan. The action was taken over complaints about allegedly 'immoral, obscene and vulgar' content on the app. The app has become quite popular among teens and young adults in the country. Also Read: Pakistan frees hardline Islamist under a deal to end violence In a statement on Twitter, the regulatory agency said that TikTok had assured Pakistan it would also block users, who upload 'unlawful content’. The app, which is owned by China's ByteDance, has been downloaded around 39 million times in Pakistan. Pakistan, which has strong relations with China, has been asking TikTok to come up with an effective mechanism to control unlawful content. (With inputs from agencies)

For fourth time, Pakistan lifts ban on Chinese video-sharing app TikTok

In Pics| China's rich list: Jack Ma drops, TikTok founder moves up

Lawmakers on Tuesday grilled executives from YouTube, Snap and TikTok about mounting concerns that their platforms can harm children and teenagers.

A bipartisan group of senators expressed concerns that the companies’ software steered young people toward inappropriate posts, mishandled consumer data and did not do enough to spot dangerous content on their platforms. Lawmakers repeatedly said their staff had been able to find harmful content — including posts related to self-harm and pornography — inside the companies’ products, sometimes while logged in as a teenager.

Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., opened the hearing by accusing the companies of drawing young people further and further into their products.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hate-easiest-way-to-grow-on-facebook-whistleblower-frances-haugen-testifies-before-uk-parliament-423970">Hate easiest way to grow on Facebook: Whistleblower Frances Haugen testifies before UK parliament</a>

“Everything that you do is to add users, especially kids, and keep them on your apps for longer,” said Blumenthal, who leads the subcommittee of the Senate Commerce Committee holding the hearing.

The companies sent executives with political experience to answer the questions. TikTok was represented by Michael Beckerman, its head of public policy for the Americas who used to lead a top lobbying group for internet companies. Leslie Miller, YouTube’s vice president for government affairs and public policy and a former Democratic political aide, appeared on behalf of the streaming site. Snap, the parent company of Snapchat, sent Jennifer Stout, its vice president for global public policy and John Kerry’s former deputy chief of staff.

Two weeks ago, Frances Haugen, a former Facebook product manager who leaked thousands of pages of internal documents, told the committee how the company knew that its products made teenagers feel worse about themselves. The decision to invite executives from other companies reflects how the lawmakers’ concerns go beyond Facebook and its photo app, Instagram, to include other major platforms across the web.

The companies quickly tried to distance themselves from each other, while arguing they were already taking significant steps to protect child users.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-whistleblower-brings-campaign-to-europe-after-disclosures-424161">Facebook whistleblower brings campaign to Europe after disclosures</a>

Stout said that Snapchat was an “antidote to social media” and stressed the differences between Snapchat and Instagram. She said that her company’s app focused on connecting people who already knew each other in real life, rather than feeding them a constant stream of content from strangers. And she said it focused on privacy, making images and messages delete by default.

She also stressed that Snapchat moderates the public content it promotes more heavily than other social media companies. Human moderators review content from publishers before promoting it in Discover, the public section of Snapchat that contains news and entertainment, Stout said. Content on Spotlight, Snap’s creator program that promotes videos from its users, is reviewed by artificial intelligence before being distributed, and reviewed by human moderators before it can be watched by more than 25 users, Stout added.

Beckerman said that TikTok was different from other platforms that focus more on direct communication between users. “It’s about uplifting, entertaining content,” he said. “People love it.”

He said that policymakers should look at the systems that verify whether users were old enough to use a product, suggesting that legislation should include language on age verification “across apps.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/inside-the-big-facebook-leak-423804">Inside the big Facebook leak</a>

Lawmakers also hammered Beckerman about whether TikTok’s Chinese ownership could expose consumer data to Beijing. Critics have long argued that the company would be obligated to turn Americans’ data over to the Chinese government if asked.

“Access controls for our data is done by our US&nbsp;teams,” said Beckerman. “And as independent researchers, independent experts have pointed out, the data that TikTok has on the app is not of a national security importance and is of low sensitivity.”

Senators repeatedly tried to prod the companies to commit to more transparency for researchers to investigate the health and safety of their platforms as well as support for elements of potential privacy legislation.

Miller of YouTube refused to be pinned down in a series of exchanges with senators. When Blumenthal asked whether the companies would allow independent researchers access to algorithms, data sets and data privacy practices, Miller responded, “It would depend on the details, but we’re always looking to partner with experts in these important fields.”

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: How Facebook profits from hate

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-how-facebook-profits-from-hate-424259/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Blumenthal shot back that YouTube’s answer “indicates certainly a strong hesitancy if not resistance to providing access.”

Similarly, Miller seemed reluctant to commit to aspects of potential privacy legislation such as a proposed update to the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act. Specifically, she waffled on whether YouTube would support a ban on targeted advertising for children or curbs on adding “likes” or comments on videos — even as Miller said that the company already did not permit such features on children’s content.

The companies frequently argued that they were already taking the kind of steps that could be required by laws in the future.

“We believe that regulation is necessary but given the speed at which technology develops and the rate at which regulation can be implemented, regulation alone can’t get the job done,” Stout said.

Lawmakers resisted efforts by the executives to paint their employers as the exception to concerns about children's safety online.

“I understand from your testimony that your defense is: We’re not Facebook,” Blumenthal said. “Being different from Facebook is not a defense. That bar is in the gutter.”

Lawmakers on Tuesday grilled executives from YouTube, Snap and TikTok about mounting concerns that their platforms can harm children and teenagers. A bipartisan group of senators expressed concerns that the companies’ software steered young people toward inappropriate posts, mishandled consumer data and did not do enough to spot dangerous content on their platforms.

Lawmakers on Tuesday grilled executives from YouTube, Snap and TikTok about mounting concerns that their platforms can harm children and teenagers. A bipartisan group of senators expressed concerns that the companies’ software steered young people toward inappropriate posts, mishandled consumer data and did not do enough to spot dangerous content on their platforms. Lawmakers repeatedly said their staff had been able to find harmful content — including posts related to self-harm and pornography — inside the companies’ products, sometimes while logged in as a teenager. Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., opened the hearing by accusing the companies of drawing young people further and further into their products. Also read | Hate easiest way to grow on Facebook: Whistleblower Frances Haugen testifies before UK parliament “Everything that you do is to add users, especially kids, and keep them on your apps for longer,” said Blumenthal, who leads the subcommittee of the Senate Commerce Committee holding the hearing. The companies sent executives with political experience to answer the questions. TikTok was represented by Michael Beckerman, its head of public policy for the Americas who used to lead a top lobbying group for internet companies. Leslie Miller, YouTube’s vice president for government affairs and public policy and a former Democratic political aide, appeared on behalf of the streaming site. Snap, the parent company of Snapchat, sent Jennifer Stout, its vice president for global public policy and John Kerry’s former deputy chief of staff. Two weeks ago, Frances Haugen, a former Facebook product manager who leaked thousands of pages of internal documents, told the committee how the company knew that its products made teenagers feel worse about themselves. The decision to invite executives from other companies reflects how the lawmakers’ concerns go beyond Facebook and its photo app, Instagram, to include other major platforms across the web. The companies quickly tried to distance themselves from each other, while arguing they were already taking significant steps to protect child users. Also read | Facebook whistleblower brings campaign to Europe after disclosures Stout said that Snapchat was an “antidote to social media” and stressed the differences between Snapchat and Instagram. She said that her company’s app focused on connecting people who already knew each other in real life, rather than feeding them a constant stream of content from strangers. And she said it focused on privacy, making images and messages delete by default. She also stressed that Snapchat moderates the public content it promotes more heavily than other social media companies. Human moderators review content from publishers before promoting it in Discover, the public section of Snapchat that contains news and entertainment, Stout said. Content on Spotlight, Snap’s creator program that promotes videos from its users, is reviewed by artificial intelligence before being distributed, and reviewed by human moderators before it can be watched by more than 25 users, Stout added. Beckerman said that TikTok was different from other platforms that focus more on direct communication between users. “It’s about uplifting, entertaining content,” he said. “People love it.” He said that policymakers should look at the systems that verify whether users were old enough to use a product, suggesting that legislation should include language on age verification “across apps.” Also read | Inside the big Facebook leak Lawmakers also hammered Beckerman about whether TikTok’s Chinese ownership could expose consumer data to Beijing. Critics have long argued that the company would be obligated to turn Americans’ data over to the Chinese government if asked. “Access controls for our data is done by our US teams,” said Beckerman. “And as independent researchers, independent experts have pointed out, the data that TikTok has on the app is not of a national security importance and is of low sensitivity.” Senators repeatedly tried to prod the companies to commit to more transparency for researchers to investigate the health and safety of their platforms as well as support for elements of potential privacy legislation. Miller of YouTube refused to be pinned down in a series of exchanges with senators. When Blumenthal asked whether the companies would allow independent researchers access to algorithms, data sets and data privacy practices, Miller responded, “It would depend on the details, but we’re always looking to partner with experts in these important fields.” Watch | Gravitas: How Facebook profits from hate Blumenthal shot back that YouTube’s answer “indicates certainly a strong hesitancy if not resistance to providing access.” Similarly, Miller seemed reluctant to commit to aspects of potential privacy legislation such as a proposed update to the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act. Specifically, she waffled on whether YouTube would support a ban on targeted advertising for children or curbs on adding “likes” or comments on videos — even as Miller said that the company already did not permit such features on children’s content. The companies frequently argued that they were already taking the kind of steps that could be required by laws in the future. “We believe that regulation is necessary but given the speed at which technology develops and the rate at which regulation can be implemented, regulation alone can’t get the job done,” Stout said. Lawmakers resisted efforts by the executives to paint their employers as the exception to concerns about children's safety online. “I understand from your testimony that your defense is: We’re not Facebook,” Blumenthal said. “Being different from Facebook is not a defense. That bar is in the gutter.”

YouTube, Snap and TikTok executives take their turn answering to Washington

US Senators put executives from YouTube, TikTok, and Snapchat on the defensive, questioning them about how they are ensuring young users’ safety on their platforms.

US lawmakers questions YouTube, Snapchat and TikTok on kids’ online safety

Do you remember Monica Geller from the phenomenal hit show F.R.I.E.N.D.S? The internet gods have now blessed us with a real-life Monica!&nbsp;

Several social media users were impressed, while others were horrified when this woman&nbsp;Nicole McLaughlin posted pictures of what was in her fridge. Filed away into ring binders to keep them organised - as some says it gave off "serial killer vibes".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/this-taiwanese-teacher-uses-porn-site-to-teach-calculus-earns-250000-per-year-424108" hreflang="en">This Taiwanese teacher uses porn site to teach calculus, earns $250,000 per year</a>

In her video on the video sharing app TikTok, McLaughlin showed rows of labeled folders stacked neatly in her fridge. The folders can be seen to be carrying labels like sandwiches, meat, drinks etc.&nbsp;

McLaughlin then opens the binder labelled 'Sandwiches' to reveal that it contained cheeses, meats, pickles, salad, and slices of bread, all in separate plastic folders.

The video received an impressive 10 million views. Nicole, a designer from New York, says that her projects are mostly concerned with finding fun ways to repurpose items in different ways.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/facial-hair-aficionados-face-off-at-german-moustache-and-beard-championships-424042" hreflang="en">Facial hair aficionados face-off at German Moustache and Beard Championships</a>

She came up with this idea one night as she was going to sleep. She tells of having the thought, 'what if a refrigerator was just like a library and so organised?'

Her idea was inspired by the fact that people organize their refrigerators with labels and containers already.&nbsp; 
She decided to take it a step further and super organise according to type of food, using binders she had laying around. The sandwich folder, for instance, separated all the individual ingredients into compartments, from meat to cheese.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/japans-princess-mako-marries-commoner-other-royals-who-gave-up-their-titles-for-love-424142" hreflang="en">Japan's Princess Mako marries commoner: Other royals who gave up their titles for love</a>

Lauren says that it's always so funny to see how people would react. She had assumed that most people would take it as a joke, because in which crazy scenario would anyone organize their fridge that way.&nbsp;

However viewers were outraged by the system, after which Nicole pointed out that it was only a project and did not in any way represent her own fridge.

Do you remember Monica Geller from the phenomenal hit show F.R.I.E.N.D.S? The internet gods have now blessed us with a real-life Monica! Several social media users were impressed, while others were horrified when this woman Nicole McLaughlin posted pictures of what was in her fridge.

Do you remember Monica Geller from the phenomenal hit show F.R.I.E.N.D.S? The internet gods have now blessed us with a real-life Monica! Several social media users were impressed, while others were horrified when this woman Nicole McLaughlin posted pictures of what was in her fridge. Filed away into ring binders to keep them organised - as some says it gave off "serial killer vibes". Also read | This Taiwanese teacher uses porn site to teach calculus, earns $250,000 per year In her video on the video sharing app TikTok, McLaughlin showed rows of labeled folders stacked neatly in her fridge. The folders can be seen to be carrying labels like sandwiches, meat, drinks etc. McLaughlin then opens the binder labelled 'Sandwiches' to reveal that it contained cheeses, meats, pickles, salad, and slices of bread, all in separate plastic folders. The video received an impressive 10 million views. Nicole, a designer from New York, says that her projects are mostly concerned with finding fun ways to repurpose items in different ways. Also read | Facial hair aficionados face-off at German Moustache and Beard Championships She came up with this idea one night as she was going to sleep. She tells of having the thought, 'what if a refrigerator was just like a library and so organised?' Her idea was inspired by the fact that people organize their refrigerators with labels and containers already. She decided to take it a step further and super organise according to type of food, using binders she had laying around. The sandwich folder, for instance, separated all the individual ingredients into compartments, from meat to cheese. Also read | Japan's Princess Mako marries commoner: Other royals who gave up their titles for love Lauren says that it's always so funny to see how people would react. She had assumed that most people would take it as a joke, because in which crazy scenario would anyone organize their fridge that way. However viewers were outraged by the system, after which Nicole pointed out that it was only a project and did not in any way represent her own fridge.

Real-life Monica: UK woman shocks internet with a 'super organised' fridge, food filed in binders

When it comes to art and artistic expression, a debate always rages as to where the boundaries of freedom give way to so-called 'obscenity'. In digital age and in times of social media, though the general acceptance and understanding appears to have improved, art still finds itself at odds with online rules of propriety.

Tired of 'censorship' of social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram among others, Vienna tourism board has opened an account on OnlyFans, the adults-only platform. Tourism board has taken this decision to protest against the traditionally dominant social platforms.

OnlyFans was started in 2016. It is the only social platform that allows depiction of nudity.

Vienna museums have recently been sparring with social media networks over posts of their artwork. In July this year, TikTok account of Albertina was suspended and later blocked for posts containing Japanese photographer Nobuyoshi Araki's artwork that showed a female breast.

In 2018, Natural History Museum's photograph was deemed pornographic by Facebook and was removed.

The Leopold Museum faced such trouble as well.

Vienna tourism board's spokesperson has been mentioned in media reports as terming actions by the social media giants as "unfair and frustrating"

All the artworks that earlier found themselves in the crosshairs of social media giants are now fully available on the OnlyFans account.

When it comes to art and artistic expression, a debate always rages as to where the boundaries of freedom give way to so-called 'obscenity'. In digital age and in times of social media, though the general acceptance and understanding appears to have improved, art still finds itself at odds with online rules of propriety.

When it comes to art and artistic expression, a debate always rages as to where the boundaries of freedom give way to so-called 'obscenity'. In digital age and in times of social media, though the general acceptance and understanding appears to have improved, art still finds itself at odds with online rules of propriety. Tired of 'censorship' of social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram among others, Vienna tourism board has opened an account on OnlyFans, the adults-only platform. Tourism board has taken this decision to protest against the traditionally dominant social platforms. OnlyFans was started in 2016. It is the only social platform that allows depiction of nudity. Vienna museums have recently been sparring with social media networks over posts of their artwork. In July this year, TikTok account of Albertina was suspended and later blocked for posts containing Japanese photographer Nobuyoshi Araki's artwork that showed a female breast. In 2018, Natural History Museum's photograph was deemed pornographic by Facebook and was removed. The Leopold Museum faced such trouble as well. Vienna tourism board's spokesperson has been mentioned in media reports as terming actions by the social media giants as "unfair and frustrating" All the artworks that earlier found themselves in the crosshairs of social media giants are now fully available on the OnlyFans account.

Tired of 'censorship' on nudes, Vienna museums open OnlyFans account

'Accent Challenge' has resurfaced on social media, a TikTok trend from the 2020 lockdown times which involves two participants who will pronounce the same word in the accents of two countries.

What is Accent Challenge, going viral on internet?

Microsoft's Chief Executive Officer Satya Nadella said on Monday that the company's near acquisition of social media app TikTok was the "strangest thing" he had "ever worked on"

Former US President Donald Trump had ordered TikTok to separate its US version from Chinese parent company ByteDance over concerns of data security of US users. Microsoft had begun acquisition talks in August 2020 but the deal collapsed by September.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/microsoft-co-founder-bill-gates-offers-15-billion-in-climate-help-if-us-takes-legislative-action-405062">Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates offers $1.5 billion in climate help if US takes legislative action</a>

Trump's divestment push ended by the time he left office in January and no potential suitor ending up acquiring TikTok.

Nadella was speaking at the Code Conference in Beverly Hills, California. He said that he was looking forward to bringing Microsoft's security, child safety and cloud expertise to TikTok.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/safe-and-easy-microsoft-announces-passwordless-account-for-users-413771">Safe and easy: Microsoft announces 'passwordless account' for users</a>

"It's unbelievable," Nadella said of the experience during an on-stage interview. "I learned so many things about so much and so many people. First of all, TikTok came to us. We didn't go to TikTok."

"TikTok was caught in between a lot of things happening across two capitals," Nadella continued. "President Trump had a particular point of view of what he was trying to get done there, and then it just dropped off. The [U.S. government] had a particular set of requirements and then it just disappeared."

Nadella said Microsoft's services related to content moderation and child safety was what had attracted TikTOk CEO Zhang Yiming to Microsoft.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amazon-microsoft-cisco-among-tech-giants-to-utilise-data-from-indias-farmers-413747">Amazon, Microsoft, Cisco among tech giants to utilise data from India’s farmers</a>

ByteDance did not immediately respond to Reuter's request for comment.

Nadella said he has no idea whether the US is still pushing for a deal under President Joe Biden. The Biden administration has said it is reviewing the national security concerns&nbsp;

"At this point, I'm happy with what I have," Nadella said.

He also expressed support for greater government regulation of cryptocurrency rules, which could stifle ransomware attacks since the ransoms often flow through opaque systems.

Microsoft's Chief Executive Officer Satya Nadella said on Monday that the company's near acquisition of social media app TikTok was the "strangest thing" he had "ever worked on" Former US President Donald Trump had ordered TikTok to separate its US version from Chinese parent company ByteDance over concerns of data security of US users.

Microsoft's Chief Executive Officer Satya Nadella said on Monday that the company's near acquisition of social media app TikTok was the "strangest thing" he had "ever worked on" Former US President Donald Trump had ordered TikTok to separate its US version from Chinese parent company ByteDance over concerns of data security of US users. Microsoft had begun acquisition talks in August 2020 but the deal collapsed by September. Also Read | Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates offers $1.5 billion in climate help if US takes legislative action Trump's divestment push ended by the time he left office in January and no potential suitor ending up acquiring TikTok. Nadella was speaking at the Code Conference in Beverly Hills, California. He said that he was looking forward to bringing Microsoft's security, child safety and cloud expertise to TikTok. Also Read | Safe and easy: Microsoft announces 'passwordless account' for users "It's unbelievable," Nadella said of the experience during an on-stage interview. "I learned so many things about so much and so many people. First of all, TikTok came to us. We didn't go to TikTok." "TikTok was caught in between a lot of things happening across two capitals," Nadella continued. "President Trump had a particular point of view of what he was trying to get done there, and then it just dropped off. The [U.S. government] had a particular set of requirements and then it just disappeared." Nadella said Microsoft's services related to content moderation and child safety was what had attracted TikTOk CEO Zhang Yiming to Microsoft. Also Read | Amazon, Microsoft, Cisco among tech giants to utilise data from India’s farmers ByteDance did not immediately respond to Reuter's request for comment. Nadella said he has no idea whether the US is still pushing for a deal under President Joe Biden. The Biden administration has said it is reviewing the national security concerns "At this point, I'm happy with what I have," Nadella said. He also expressed support for greater government regulation of cryptocurrency rules, which could stifle ransomware attacks since the ransoms often flow through opaque systems.

Failed TikTok deal 'strangest thing I've worked on', says Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has confirmed that the human remains found near the Wyoming border belong to Gabby Petito.

Gabby Petito, a 22-year-old woman from Florida, was travelling along with her fiance Brian Laundrie but was reported missing on September 11 after he returned alone from the trip and refused to answer questions about her.

He did contact not her family or the police when he returned on September 1.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/search-for-gabby-petito-fbi-finds-remains-consistent-with-the-22-year-old-414295">Also read |&nbsp;Search for Gabby Petito: FBI finds remains 'consistent' with the 22-year-old</a>

Laundrie, 23, was visiting Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming with Petito.

The police are searching for him after the FBI found human remain's ''consistent'' with Petito's description.

The FBI later said a county coroner had confirmed that Petito's cause of death was a homicide and have labelled him a ''person of interest.''

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fbi-florida-police-on-hunt-for-gabby-petitos-fiance-after-family-says-he-is-missing-414057">Also read |&nbsp;FBI, Florida police on hunt for Gabby Petito’s fiancé after family says he is ‘missing’</a>

According to bodycam footage released by the Utah police,&nbsp;Peitio had filed a report about a domestic violence incident and had complained about her mental health.

Laundrie had claimed that she had struck him during an argument. However, he did not file any charges.

The case has been in the headlines in the past couple of days and has captivated the attention of internet sleuths on several social media platforms.

A Tiktok campaign is trending with the hashtag Gabby Petito on Tiktok with over 650 million views.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has confirmed that the human remains found near the Wyoming border belong to Gabby Petito. Gabby Petito, a 22-year-old woman from Florida, was travelling along with her fiance Brian Laundrie but was reported missing on September 11 after he returned alone from the trip and refused to answer questions about her.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has confirmed that the human remains found near the Wyoming border belong to Gabby Petito. Gabby Petito, a 22-year-old woman from Florida, was travelling along with her fiance Brian Laundrie but was reported missing on September 11 after he returned alone from the trip and refused to answer questions about her. He did contact not her family or the police when he returned on September 1. Also read | Search for Gabby Petito: FBI finds remains 'consistent' with the 22-year-old Laundrie, 23, was visiting Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming with Petito. The police are searching for him after the FBI found human remain's ''consistent'' with Petito's description. The FBI later said a county coroner had confirmed that Petito's cause of death was a homicide and have labelled him a ''person of interest.'' Also read | FBI, Florida police on hunt for Gabby Petito’s fiancé after family says he is ‘missing’ According to bodycam footage released by the Utah police, Peitio had filed a report about a domestic violence incident and had complained about her mental health. Laundrie had claimed that she had struck him during an argument. However, he did not file any charges. The case has been in the headlines in the past couple of days and has captivated the attention of internet sleuths on several social media platforms. A Tiktok campaign is trending with the hashtag Gabby Petito on Tiktok with over 650 million views.

FBI confirms Gabby Petito's death by homicide amid ongoing search for fiance

Reports say a new <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/tiktok-ramps-up-privacy-protection-for-teens-405047">TikTok</a> challenge known as "devious licks" has led students in the US to destroy and steal property.

The viral TikTok trend has reportedly worried teachers and parents with incidents of vandalism taking place in New Jersey and Connecticut.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-regulator-investigates-tiktok-over-child-policy-data-transfer-to-china-413446">Also Read:&nbsp;EU regulator investigates TikTok over child policy, data transfer to China</a>

Reports said some schools in the Connecticut area have demanded&nbsp;TikTok ban users who have participated in the "devious licks" challenge.

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The message below from Superintendent Amy Smith about the TikTok "Devious Licks" Challenge was sent directly to parents/guardians through Infinite Campus email this afternoon. <a href="https://t.co/0rfiVtQmyZ">pic.twitter.com/0rfiVtQmyZ</a>
— Hopkins Co Schools (@HCBOE) <a href="https://twitter.com/HCBOE/status/1440035606986326020?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 20, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Another report claimed that a student from an Alabama school was charged for stealing a fire extinguisher as part of the TikTok challenge.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/shameful-act-pakistan-govt-condemns-sexual-assault-on-tiktok-star-by-400-men-406908">Also Read:&nbsp;Pakistan govt condemns sexual assault on TikTok star by 400 men</a>

A student in Florida was also arrested for reportedly damaging soap dispensers. TikTok is reportedly set to ban content related to&nbsp;the "devious licks" trend.

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We have been experiencing vandalism and theft across some of our campuses. Please read the following about the "Devious Licks" TikTok challenge. <a href="https://t.co/JTgu1MUo7P">pic.twitter.com/JTgu1MUo7P</a>
— Apple Valley Unified School District (@AVUSD) <a href="https://twitter.com/AVUSD/status/1440088161682558979?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 20, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The TikTok challenge called “devious licks,” motivates students to either damage school property or steal some items. 
 
We encourage parents to talk to their kids and explain that everything has a value...which can lead to consequences. 
 
It's a challenge/trend worth skipping! <a href="https://t.co/rbeZ6H4ee5">pic.twitter.com/rbeZ6H4ee5</a>
— Morgan County Sheriff's Office (Alabama) (@morgan_sheriff) <a href="https://twitter.com/morgan_sheriff/status/1438504485039443968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Similar reports of damage and property loss have also been reported in schools across New Jersey. Reports said some schools have gone to the extent of shutting down bathrooms to stop the carnage.

(With inputs from Agencies)&nbsp;

Reports say a new TikTok challenge known as "devious licks" has led students in the US to destroy and steal property. The viral TikTok trend has reportedly worried teachers and parents with incidents of vandalism taking place in New Jersey and Connecticut.

Reports say a new TikTok challenge known as "devious licks" has led students in the US to destroy and steal property. The viral TikTok trend has reportedly worried teachers and parents with incidents of vandalism taking place in New Jersey and Connecticut. Also Read: EU regulator investigates TikTok over child policy, data transfer to China Reports said some schools in the Connecticut area have demanded TikTok ban users who have participated in the "devious licks" challenge. The message below from Superintendent Amy Smith about the TikTok "Devious Licks" Challenge was sent directly to parents/guardians through Infinite Campus email this afternoon. pic.twitter.com/0rfiVtQmyZ — Hopkins Co Schools (@HCBOE) September 20, 2021 × Another report claimed that a student from an Alabama school was charged for stealing a fire extinguisher as part of the TikTok challenge. Also Read: Pakistan govt condemns sexual assault on TikTok star by 400 men A student in Florida was also arrested for reportedly damaging soap dispensers. TikTok is reportedly set to ban content related to the "devious licks" trend. We have been experiencing vandalism and theft across some of our campuses. Please read the following about the "Devious Licks" TikTok challenge. pic.twitter.com/JTgu1MUo7P — Apple Valley Unified School District (@AVUSD) September 20, 2021 × The TikTok challenge called “devious licks,” motivates students to either damage school property or steal some items. We encourage parents to talk to their kids and explain that everything has a value...which can lead to consequences. It's a challenge/trend worth skipping! pic.twitter.com/rbeZ6H4ee5 — Morgan County Sheriff's Office (Alabama) (@morgan_sheriff) September 16, 2021 × Similar reports of damage and property loss have also been reported in schools across New Jersey. Reports said some schools have gone to the extent of shutting down bathrooms to stop the carnage. (With inputs from Agencies)

TikTok's latest 'devious licks' trend shocks US schools

TikTok's lead data privacy regulator in the European Union has opened two inquiries into the Chinese-owned short-video platform related to the processing of children's personal data and transfers of personal data to China.

Ireland's Data Protection Commission, which is lead EU regulator for many of the world's top internet firms due to the location of their regional headquarters in Ireland, is allowed to impose fines of up to 4% of global revenue.

TikTok in August announced stricter privacy controls for teenagers, seeking to address criticism that it has failed to protect children from hidden advertising and inappropriate content.

Owned by China's ByteDance, TikTok has grown rapidly around the world, particularly among teenagers.

The first of the probes relates "to the processing of personal data in the context of platform settings for users under age 18 and age verification measures for persons under 13," the Data Protection Commission said in a statement.

The second probe will focus on transfers by TikTok of personal data to China and whether the company complies with EU data law in its transfers of personal data to countries outside the bloc, the statement said.

A spokesperson for TikTok said it had implemented extensive policies and controls to safeguard user data and relies on approved methods for data being transferred from Europe, such as standard contractual clauses.

"The privacy and safety of the TikTok community, particularly our youngest members, is our highest priority," the spokesperson said.

Ireland's data watchdog earlier this month levied a record 225 million euro ($265.64 million) fine on Facebook's WhatsApp under the EU's 2018 General Data Protection Regulation law (GDPR).

But the watchdog has faced criticism from other European regulators at the speed of its inquiries and the severeness of its sanctions.

The Irish regulator had 27 international inquiries in progress at the end of last year, including 14 into Facebook and its subsidiaries. 
&nbsp;

TikTok's lead data privacy regulator in the European Union has opened two inquiries into the Chinese-owned short-video platform related to the processing of children's personal data and transfers of personal data to China.

TikTok's lead data privacy regulator in the European Union has opened two inquiries into the Chinese-owned short-video platform related to the processing of children's personal data and transfers of personal data to China. Ireland's Data Protection Commission, which is lead EU regulator for many of the world's top internet firms due to the location of their regional headquarters in Ireland, is allowed to impose fines of up to 4% of global revenue. TikTok in August announced stricter privacy controls for teenagers, seeking to address criticism that it has failed to protect children from hidden advertising and inappropriate content. Owned by China's ByteDance, TikTok has grown rapidly around the world, particularly among teenagers. The first of the probes relates "to the processing of personal data in the context of platform settings for users under age 18 and age verification measures for persons under 13," the Data Protection Commission said in a statement. The second probe will focus on transfers by TikTok of personal data to China and whether the company complies with EU data law in its transfers of personal data to countries outside the bloc, the statement said. A spokesperson for TikTok said it had implemented extensive policies and controls to safeguard user data and relies on approved methods for data being transferred from Europe, such as standard contractual clauses. "The privacy and safety of the TikTok community, particularly our youngest members, is our highest priority," the spokesperson said. Ireland's data watchdog earlier this month levied a record 225 million euro ($265.64 million) fine on Facebook's WhatsApp under the EU's 2018 General Data Protection Regulation law (GDPR). But the watchdog has faced criticism from other European regulators at the speed of its inquiries and the severeness of its sanctions. The Irish regulator had 27 international inquiries in progress at the end of last year, including 14 into Facebook and its subsidiaries.

TikTok's lead EU regulator opens two data privacy probes

Ireland's Data Protection Commission which is European Union's lead data privacy regulator has opened investigations into&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/shameful-act-pakistan-govt-condemns-sexual-assault-on-tiktok-star-by-400-men-406908">TikTok's</a> alleged processing of children’s personal data and the reported transfer&nbsp;of personal data to China.

TikTok which is owned by China's ByteDance had earlier announced policy to tighten privacy control related to&nbsp;teenagers after it allegedly failed to protect children from inappropriate content.

According to the data protection commission, the probes involve "processing of personal data in the context of platform settings for users under age 18 and age verification measures for persons under 13" under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-facebook-knew-instagram-is-toxic-for-teenagers-413345/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The data protection regulator&nbsp;is also probing whether <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/they-tore-my-clothes-woman-tiktok-star-assaulted-by-hundreds-in-lahore-on-pakistans-independence-day-406486">TikTok </a>complied with EU data law in its alleged transfer of personal data to countries outside the block namely to China.

TikTok however claimed that "privacy and safety" of "our youngest members, is our highest priority".

The data protection regulator based in Ireland can impose fines of up to 4 per cent of global revenue even as TikTok claimed it had implemented policies to safeguard user data. The regulator had earlier imposed $265 million fine on Facebook's WhatsApp over a data breach issue.

TikTok reportedly has over 800 million users worldwide with large advertising revenue. In July, the Dutch Data Protection Authority(DPA) had imposed a €725,000 fine on TikTok for allegedly violating the privacy of young children.

Reports said TikTok carried out a number of changes to make the app safe for children after the Dutch regulator's move.

The probe conducted by Dutch authorities had concluded that TikTok had breached EU's General Data Protection Regulation&nbsp;transparency principle.

The Dutch DPA had found that TikTok had put its notice in English which could not be read easily by users as GDPR asserted that “children merit specific protection.”

(With inputs from Agencies)

Ireland's Data Protection Commission which is European Union's lead data privacy regulator has opened investigations into TikTok's alleged processing of children’s personal data and the reported transfer of personal data to China.

Ireland's Data Protection Commission which is European Union's lead data privacy regulator has opened investigations into TikTok's alleged processing of children’s personal data and the reported transfer of personal data to China. TikTok which is owned by China's ByteDance had earlier announced policy to tighten privacy control related to teenagers after it allegedly failed to protect children from inappropriate content. According to the data protection commission, the probes involve "processing of personal data in the context of platform settings for users under age 18 and age verification measures for persons under 13" under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Watch: The data protection regulator is also probing whether TikTok complied with EU data law in its alleged transfer of personal data to countries outside the block namely to China. TikTok however claimed that "privacy and safety" of "our youngest members, is our highest priority". The data protection regulator based in Ireland can impose fines of up to 4 per cent of global revenue even as TikTok claimed it had implemented policies to safeguard user data. The regulator had earlier imposed $265 million fine on Facebook's WhatsApp over a data breach issue. TikTok reportedly has over 800 million users worldwide with large advertising revenue. In July, the Dutch Data Protection Authority(DPA) had imposed a €725,000 fine on TikTok for allegedly violating the privacy of young children. Reports said TikTok carried out a number of changes to make the app safe for children after the Dutch regulator's move. The probe conducted by Dutch authorities had concluded that TikTok had breached EU's General Data Protection Regulation transparency principle. The Dutch DPA had found that TikTok had put its notice in English which could not be read easily by users as GDPR asserted that “children merit specific protection.” (With inputs from Agencies)

EU regulator investigates TikTok over child policy, data transfer to China

The milk crate challenge that involves&nbsp;walking over a pyramid of precariously balanced&nbsp;milk&nbsp;crates has gone viral on social media.

TikTok and other social media sites have been flooded in recent days by videos of people in the United States and beyond trying,&nbsp;and mostly failing,&nbsp;the climb the crates.

Most videos end with what looks like a painful fall onto the collapsing crates, or the ground, as onlookers film on their phones in what some dubbed an event in the "Hood Olympics."

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CTBsbpTHTZN/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by 😂 &amp; 🎶 Chucky Lok (@rashdawg)</a>
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Now, health&nbsp;experts have warned&nbsp;that people should not attempt the latest viral challenge.

"You're at risk for... hitting your head and getting a head bleed," said Dr. Chad Cannon, an emergency room doctor at the University of Kansas Health System.

If "you land on the&nbsp;milk&nbsp;crate, you will break your back and be paralysed."

Baltimore City Health pointed out that hospitals are already under strain from the pandemic.

"With Covid-19 hospitalizations rising around the country, please check with your local hospital to see if they have a bed available for you, before attempting the #milkcratechallenge," the official account tweeted.

While the hashtag was readily searchable on Twitter and Instagram on Wednesday, searches on TikTok returned no results.

"This phrase may be associated with behavior or content that violates our guidelines. Promoting a safe and positive experience is TikTok's top priority," the search result page said.

The videos,&nbsp;and photographs of some appalling injuries, were reminiscent of an earlier internet sensation that had doctors tearing their hair out.

The 2018 Tide Pod Challenge saw young people biting into a liquid laundry detergent packets.

Some social media users pointed out the likelihood that not all of those appearing in these videos in the United States would get free medical treatment.

"People doing this like they have the best health insurance" tweeted @ogmike.

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This <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CrateChallenge?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CrateChallenge</a> needs to be stopped! <a href="https://t.co/kVVlqc5RSv">pic.twitter.com/kVVlqc5RSv</a>
— Sharyf🦁 (@__Sharyf) <a href="https://twitter.com/__Sharyf/status/1430437617724755968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Others contrasted the willingness of people to attempt something so patently dangerous with the attitude to getting a coronavirus jab that has proven safe and effective.

"You'll do the&nbsp;milk&nbsp;crate challenge but won't get the vaccine. Got it," quipped 'Star Trek' actor George Takei.

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Today had its ups and downs. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CrateChallenge?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CrateChallenge</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/houston?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#houston</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/rockets?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#rockets</a> <a href="https://t.co/QqkYYoqr3L">pic.twitter.com/QqkYYoqr3L</a>
— Clutch the Bear (@clutchthebear) <a href="https://twitter.com/clutchthebear/status/1430303892789678080?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Just over half of Americans are fully vaccinated against COVID-19, despite the shots being free and widely available.

Opposition to the jabs is driven by politics, distrust of government, and antipathy towards science, and is particularly acute in poorer, more conservative parts of the country.

(With inputs from agencies)

The milk crate challenge that involves walking over a pyramid of precariously balanced milk crates has gone viral on social media. TikTok and other social media sites have been flooded in recent days by videos of people in the United States and beyond trying, and mostly failing, the climb the crates.

The milk crate challenge that involves walking over a pyramid of precariously balanced milk crates has gone viral on social media. TikTok and other social media sites have been flooded in recent days by videos of people in the United States and beyond trying, and mostly failing, the climb the crates. Most videos end with what looks like a painful fall onto the collapsing crates, or the ground, as onlookers film on their phones in what some dubbed an event in the "Hood Olympics." View this post on Instagram A post shared by 😂 & 🎶 Chucky Lok (@rashdawg) Now, health experts have warned that people should not attempt the latest viral challenge. "You're at risk for... hitting your head and getting a head bleed," said Dr. Chad Cannon, an emergency room doctor at the University of Kansas Health System. If "you land on the milk crate, you will break your back and be paralysed." Baltimore City Health pointed out that hospitals are already under strain from the pandemic. "With Covid-19 hospitalizations rising around the country, please check with your local hospital to see if they have a bed available for you, before attempting the #milkcratechallenge," the official account tweeted. While the hashtag was readily searchable on Twitter and Instagram on Wednesday, searches on TikTok returned no results. "This phrase may be associated with behavior or content that violates our guidelines. Promoting a safe and positive experience is TikTok's top priority," the search result page said. The videos, and photographs of some appalling injuries, were reminiscent of an earlier internet sensation that had doctors tearing their hair out. The 2018 Tide Pod Challenge saw young people biting into a liquid laundry detergent packets. Some social media users pointed out the likelihood that not all of those appearing in these videos in the United States would get free medical treatment. "People doing this like they have the best health insurance" tweeted @ogmike. This #CrateChallenge needs to be stopped! pic.twitter.com/kVVlqc5RSv — Sharyf🦁 (@__Sharyf) August 25, 2021 × Others contrasted the willingness of people to attempt something so patently dangerous with the attitude to getting a coronavirus jab that has proven safe and effective. "You'll do the milk crate challenge but won't get the vaccine. Got it," quipped 'Star Trek' actor George Takei. Today had its ups and downs. #CrateChallenge #houston #rockets pic.twitter.com/QqkYYoqr3L — Clutch the Bear (@clutchthebear) August 24, 2021 × Just over half of Americans are fully vaccinated against COVID-19, despite the shots being free and widely available. Opposition to the jabs is driven by politics, distrust of government, and antipathy towards science, and is particularly acute in poorer, more conservative parts of the country. (With inputs from agencies)

What is the milk crate challenge that has gone viral on social media?

The milk crate challenge that involves walking over a pyramid of precariously balanced milk crates has gone viral on social media. TikTok and other social media sites have been flooded in recent days by videos of people in the United States and some other countries showed people trying to balance themselves on a pyramid of milk crates, mostly failing in their attempt.

'Milk Crate Challenge' takes over internet, doctors express concern

A little after a female Pakistan TikTok star revealed that she was sexually assaulted by nearly 400 men in public on the country’s Independence Day, the government has condemned the "shameful" act.

The spokesman for the Pakistani Government of the Punjab Fayyazul Hassan Chohan, on Thursday, said the authorities are doing everything they can to identify and punish hundreds of the men who groped, harassed and stole from the TikTok star.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/they-tore-my-clothes-woman-tiktok-star-assaulted-by-hundreds-in-lahore-on-pakistans-independence-day-406486">'They tore my clothes': Woman TikTok star assaulted by hundreds in Lahore on Pakistan’s Independence Day&nbsp;</a>

On Pakistan’s Independence Day, i.e. August 14, the single woman was approached by a large group of men who started touching her without her permission. They later picked her up and carried her through the crowd.

"The incident of assault on a woman in Greater Iqbal Park is a shameful act which has brought shame to the society,"&nbsp;Chohan said in a statement.

This horrifying incident took place in Lahore’s Greater Iqbal Park.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/taliban-unleash-its-wicked-face-open-fire-women-and-children-beaten-at-kabul-airport-406855">WATCH</a>

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As per the reports, the TikTok star was shooting a video in the park when she was attacked by a large group of men. These men started groping her, tore off her clothes, started beating her and even threw her in the air. In addition to this assault, her phone, rings and money was also stolen from her.

Local police have started an investigation into this matter, as per local media reports. However, none of the culprits have been identified yet.

"The assault of a young women by a mob at #minarepakistan [Independence Day] should shame every Pakistani. It speaks to a rot in our society," Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, chairman of the Pakistan Peoples Party said.

A little after a female Pakistan TikTok star revealed that she was sexually assaulted by nearly 400 men in public on the country’s Independence Day, the government has condemned the "shameful" act.

A little after a female Pakistan TikTok star revealed that she was sexually assaulted by nearly 400 men in public on the country’s Independence Day, the government has condemned the "shameful" act. The spokesman for the Pakistani Government of the Punjab Fayyazul Hassan Chohan, on Thursday, said the authorities are doing everything they can to identify and punish hundreds of the men who groped, harassed and stole from the TikTok star. Also read: 'They tore my clothes': Woman TikTok star assaulted by hundreds in Lahore on Pakistan’s Independence Day On Pakistan’s Independence Day, i.e. August 14, the single woman was approached by a large group of men who started touching her without her permission. They later picked her up and carried her through the crowd. "The incident of assault on a woman in Greater Iqbal Park is a shameful act which has brought shame to the society," Chohan said in a statement. This horrifying incident took place in Lahore’s Greater Iqbal Park. WATCH As per the reports, the TikTok star was shooting a video in the park when she was attacked by a large group of men. These men started groping her, tore off her clothes, started beating her and even threw her in the air. In addition to this assault, her phone, rings and money was also stolen from her. Local police have started an investigation into this matter, as per local media reports. However, none of the culprits have been identified yet. "The assault of a young women by a mob at #minarepakistan [Independence Day] should shame every Pakistani. It speaks to a rot in our society," Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, chairman of the Pakistan Peoples Party said.

'Shameful act': Pakistan govt condemns sexual assault on TikTok star by 400 men

TikTok became the latest tech company Thursday to announce tighter protections for teenagers as social media platforms come under increased scrutiny over their privacy safeguards.

The short video-sharing app will roll out a number of features in the coming months, including a default curb for 16 and 17-year-olds on in-app messaging unless it is switched to a different setting.

Under 16s will see a pop-up message when they publish their first video, asking them to choose who can watch.&nbsp;

And users aged 16 and 17 will be able to receive a pop-up asking them to confirm who can download their videos. Downloads are already disabled on content posted by under 16s.&nbsp;

The Chinese-owned platform will also stop sending push notifications to users aged 13 to 16 from 9pm -- and an hour later for 16 to 17-year-olds -- with the aim of reducing their screen time at night.&nbsp;

The moves announced by head of child safety public policy Alexandra Evans and global head of privacy Aruna Sharma build on previous measures to protect young users from predators, bullies and other online dangers.

"It's important to ensure even stronger proactive protections to help keep teens safe, and we've continually introduced changes to support age-appropriate experiences on our platform," Evans and Sharma said.

"We want to help our younger teens in particular develop positive digital habits early on."

Google, YouTube and Facebook-Instagram have all recently bolstered defenses for teen users, while critics have been urging Facebook to abandon plans for a children's version of Instagram.

TikTok was the world's most downloaded app last year, overtaking Facebook and its messaging platforms, according to market tracker App Annie.

The video app surged in popularity, according to market tracker App Annie, despite efforts by former president Donald Trump to ban it or force a sale to US-based investors.

TikTok became the latest tech company Thursday to announce tighter protections for teenagers as social media platforms come under increased scrutiny over their privacy safeguards.

TikTok became the latest tech company Thursday to announce tighter protections for teenagers as social media platforms come under increased scrutiny over their privacy safeguards. The short video-sharing app will roll out a number of features in the coming months, including a default curb for 16 and 17-year-olds on in-app messaging unless it is switched to a different setting. Under 16s will see a pop-up message when they publish their first video, asking them to choose who can watch. And users aged 16 and 17 will be able to receive a pop-up asking them to confirm who can download their videos. Downloads are already disabled on content posted by under 16s. The Chinese-owned platform will also stop sending push notifications to users aged 13 to 16 from 9pm -- and an hour later for 16 to 17-year-olds -- with the aim of reducing their screen time at night. The moves announced by head of child safety public policy Alexandra Evans and global head of privacy Aruna Sharma build on previous measures to protect young users from predators, bullies and other online dangers. "It's important to ensure even stronger proactive protections to help keep teens safe, and we've continually introduced changes to support age-appropriate experiences on our platform," Evans and Sharma said. "We want to help our younger teens in particular develop positive digital habits early on." Google, YouTube and Facebook-Instagram have all recently bolstered defenses for teen users, while critics have been urging Facebook to abandon plans for a children's version of Instagram. TikTok was the world's most downloaded app last year, overtaking Facebook and its messaging platforms, according to market tracker App Annie. The video app surged in popularity, according to market tracker App Annie, despite efforts by former president Donald Trump to ban it or force a sale to US-based investors.

TikTok ramps up privacy protection for teens

Chinese short-video platform <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/tiktok">TikTok</a> has overtaken <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/facebook">Facebook</a> as the most downloaded social media app in the world, the media reported. 
 
According to Nikkei Asia, a global survey of downloads in 2020 showed TikTok on top of the list of social media providers for the first time since the study was first conducted in 2018.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/source-of-income-for-poor-pakistan-court-questions-telecom-authority-over-banning-of-tiktok-404218" hreflang="en">'Source of income for poor': Pakistan court questions telecom authority over banning of TikTok</a> 
 
The report said that TikTok's parent company ByteDance launched the international version of the short-video platform in 2017, and has since overtaken Facebook, WhatsApp, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/instagram">Instagram</a> and Facebook Messenger, all of which are Facebook-owned, in downloads, even in the US. 
 
The app's popularity grew during the pandemic when it became the leading download in Europe, South America and the US, the report said on Monday. 
 
Chat and communications platform Discord has benefited from people's need to isolate during the pandemic. It is popular among gamers for chatting when online and has been funded by Sony Group.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/tiktok-tests-disappearing-videos-feature-but-with-a-twist-403120" hreflang="en">TikTok tests disappearing videos feature, but with a twist</a> 
 
At the start of 2021, WhatsApp announced that it would share messaging data with Facebook relating to interactions between users and companies. Although WhatsApp promised to protect information about communications between friends and family, some users moved over to other apps. 
 
Bucking that trend, Telegram, a messaging app originally developed in Russia but now based in Germany, moved up to seventh. The report mentioned that Telegram has also been driven up by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19 pandemic</a>. 
 
China's Likee, a TikTok competitor, that many companies use for marketing has ranked eighth in the latest global download league.

Chinese short-video platform TikTok has overtaken Facebook as the most downloaded social media app in the world, the media reported. According to Nikkei Asia, a global survey of downloads in 2020 showed TikTok on top of the list of social media providers for the first time since the study was first conducted in 2018.

Chinese short-video platform TikTok has overtaken Facebook as the most downloaded social media app in the world, the media reported. According to Nikkei Asia, a global survey of downloads in 2020 showed TikTok on top of the list of social media providers for the first time since the study was first conducted in 2018. Also read | 'Source of income for poor': Pakistan court questions telecom authority over banning of TikTok The report said that TikTok's parent company ByteDance launched the international version of the short-video platform in 2017, and has since overtaken Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram and Facebook Messenger, all of which are Facebook-owned, in downloads, even in the US. The app's popularity grew during the pandemic when it became the leading download in Europe, South America and the US, the report said on Monday. Chat and communications platform Discord has benefited from people's need to isolate during the pandemic. It is popular among gamers for chatting when online and has been funded by Sony Group. Also read | TikTok tests disappearing videos feature, but with a twist At the start of 2021, WhatsApp announced that it would share messaging data with Facebook relating to interactions between users and companies. Although WhatsApp promised to protect information about communications between friends and family, some users moved over to other apps. Bucking that trend, Telegram, a messaging app originally developed in Russia but now based in Germany, moved up to seventh. The report mentioned that Telegram has also been driven up by the COVID-19 pandemic. China's Likee, a TikTok competitor, that many companies use for marketing has ranked eighth in the latest global download league.

TikTok overtakes Facebook as most world's most downloaded app

In response to the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority's (PTA) fourth ban of the video-sharing app TikTok, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) asked the telecommunications authority to provide a mechanism for operating the app.

"The TikTok app is a source of income for the underprivileged," the court said in its&nbsp;judgement.

Athar Minallah, Chief Justice of the IHC, heard the case challenging the suspension of the app.

Minallah&nbsp;asked the PTA counsel to justify a ban on TikTok, noting that if banning TikTok is the only solution, then similar video-sharing platforms like YouTube and Google should be banned as well.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/spreading-immorality-tiktok-blocked-in-pakistan-for-the-third-time-394619">'Spreading immorality': TikTok blocked in Pakistan for the third time</a>

He stated that social media applications are central to people's livelihoods in the 21st century, and asked PTA to seek federal government input rather than prohibit the service unilaterally.

The PTA lawyer responded by saying that the High Courts in Peshawar and Sindh had ordered the app to be banned, as well as creating a mechanism to stop inappropriate content from making its way into the app.

A brief reading out of the orders of the high courts was asked by the chief justice. It was then pointed out that neither court had ordered the app to be completely banned.&nbsp;

In his opinion, instead of placing a blanket ban, PTA should instead guide people not to watch inappropriate content.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-lifts-tiktok-ban-for-second-time-374746">Also read: Pakistan lifts TikTok ban for second time</a>

Minallah&nbsp;observed that the PTA had "misused the order" from both courts and requested to know whether the actual order&nbsp;concerning developing a mechanism had been followed.&nbsp;

PTA lawyer went on to say&nbsp;that Tiktok is not permanently banned by the authority. Rather, the PTA has simply requested that the company collaborate with them. He added&nbsp;that the PTA will develop mechanisms for all apps in time.&nbsp;

In the meantime, the complainant's lawyer requested the court to declare that the press release PTA used to announce the suspension of the application to be rendered ineffective. The lawyer stressed that the court must ask the PTA to lift the ban.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-bans-tiktok-citing-morals-others-cite-politics-334694">Pakistan bans TikTok, citing Morals. Others cite politics.</a>

Pakistan banned the Chinese-owned app for the first time in October 2020. The case hearing has been adjourned until August 23.

In response to the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority's (PTA) fourth ban of the video-sharing app TikTok, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) asked the telecommunications authority to provide a mechanism for operating the app.

In response to the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority's (PTA) fourth ban of the video-sharing app TikTok, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) asked the telecommunications authority to provide a mechanism for operating the app. "The TikTok app is a source of income for the underprivileged," the court said in its judgement. Athar Minallah, Chief Justice of the IHC, heard the case challenging the suspension of the app. Minallah asked the PTA counsel to justify a ban on TikTok, noting that if banning TikTok is the only solution, then similar video-sharing platforms like YouTube and Google should be banned as well. Also read | 'Spreading immorality': TikTok blocked in Pakistan for the third time He stated that social media applications are central to people's livelihoods in the 21st century, and asked PTA to seek federal government input rather than prohibit the service unilaterally. The PTA lawyer responded by saying that the High Courts in Peshawar and Sindh had ordered the app to be banned, as well as creating a mechanism to stop inappropriate content from making its way into the app. A brief reading out of the orders of the high courts was asked by the chief justice. It was then pointed out that neither court had ordered the app to be completely banned. In his opinion, instead of placing a blanket ban, PTA should instead guide people not to watch inappropriate content. Also read: Pakistan lifts TikTok ban for second time Minallah observed that the PTA had "misused the order" from both courts and requested to know whether the actual order concerning developing a mechanism had been followed. PTA lawyer went on to say that Tiktok is not permanently banned by the authority. Rather, the PTA has simply requested that the company collaborate with them. He added that the PTA will develop mechanisms for all apps in time. In the meantime, the complainant's lawyer requested the court to declare that the press release PTA used to announce the suspension of the application to be rendered ineffective. The lawyer stressed that the court must ask the PTA to lift the ban. Also read | Pakistan bans TikTok, citing Morals. Others cite politics. Pakistan banned the Chinese-owned app for the first time in October 2020. The case hearing has been adjourned until August 23.

'Source of income for poor': Pakistan court questions telecom authority over banning of TikTok

&nbsp;The famous short video sharing platform, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/tiktok">TikTok</a>, is testing a new Snapchat-like feature of disappearing videos.

TikTok introduced a new 'stories' feature in which the content creators can post videos and photos that will, unlike other media content on the platform, vanish after some time.

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TikTok Stories 
 
what the… 😳 <a href="https://t.co/PIUpKMhj0k">pic.twitter.com/PIUpKMhj0k</a>
— Matt Navarra (@MattNavarra) <a href="https://twitter.com/MattNavarra/status/1422978662169710597?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 4, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/urgent-action-required-on-vaping-videos-on-tiktok-study-400972" hreflang="en">Urgent action required on vaping videos on TikTok: Study</a>

Even though this feature is similar to Snapchat, Instagram and Facebook stories, TikTok has added its own twist to this. Before uploading the media content, the users can add text, colour, stickers etc. Users, who see these stories, can react, comment, and like, just like in Instagram and Facebook. However, unlike other apps, the comments of the stories will be available to the author on the story itself, rather than in a personal or direct message.

"We're always thinking about new ways to bring value to our community and enrich the TikTok experience,"&nbsp;a TikTok spokesperson was quoted by BBC. "Currently we're experimenting with ways to give creators additional formats to bring their creative ideas to life for the TikTok community."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/facebook-google-tiktok-twitter-vow-to-stop-online-gender-abuse-395209" hreflang="en">Facebook, Google, TikTok &amp; Twitter vow to stop online gender abuse</a>

This has come almost at the same time when social media platform Twitter took back its feature of fleets, which also allowed users to post disappearing stories. Twitter was not able to make a success from its Fleets, because of which the company decided to close down the feature.

Meanwhile, messaging app, WhatsApp is also trying its hand at a new feature that will allow users to send videos and photos with "view once" option. While Facebook-owned WhatsApp is hoping to provide more privacy to users, ByteDance-owned TikTok is hoping to beat its competing platforms.

The famous short video sharing platform, TikTok, is testing a new Snapchat-like feature of disappearing videos. TikTok introduced a new 'stories' feature in which the content creators can post videos and photos that will, unlike other media content on the platform, vanish after some time.

The famous short video sharing platform, TikTok, is testing a new Snapchat-like feature of disappearing videos. TikTok introduced a new 'stories' feature in which the content creators can post videos and photos that will, unlike other media content on the platform, vanish after some time. TikTok Stories what the… 😳 pic.twitter.com/PIUpKMhj0k — Matt Navarra (@MattNavarra) August 4, 2021 × Also read | Urgent action required on vaping videos on TikTok: Study Even though this feature is similar to Snapchat, Instagram and Facebook stories, TikTok has added its own twist to this. Before uploading the media content, the users can add text, colour, stickers etc. Users, who see these stories, can react, comment, and like, just like in Instagram and Facebook. However, unlike other apps, the comments of the stories will be available to the author on the story itself, rather than in a personal or direct message. "We're always thinking about new ways to bring value to our community and enrich the TikTok experience," a TikTok spokesperson was quoted by BBC. "Currently we're experimenting with ways to give creators additional formats to bring their creative ideas to life for the TikTok community." Also read | Facebook, Google, TikTok & Twitter vow to stop online gender abuse This has come almost at the same time when social media platform Twitter took back its feature of fleets, which also allowed users to post disappearing stories. Twitter was not able to make a success from its Fleets, because of which the company decided to close down the feature. Meanwhile, messaging app, WhatsApp is also trying its hand at a new feature that will allow users to send videos and photos with "view once" option. While Facebook-owned WhatsApp is hoping to provide more privacy to users, ByteDance-owned TikTok is hoping to beat its competing platforms.

TikTok tests disappearing videos feature, but with a twist

In a recent TikTok session over COVID-19 vaccination on Monday, French president Emmanuel Macron ditched his trademark grey suit, white shirt and tie and donned a trendy look with a black and short-sleeved T-shirt. &nbsp;

Although the session was organised to encourage French youngsters to get vaccinated, the netizens seem to somehow got stuck with the meaning of the logo of the Macron’s T-shirt.&nbsp;

The efforts to allay fears about vaccination seem to somehow not pay off as hours after the session, the social media buzz across the country was over the conspiracy theories cooked up about the logo. &nbsp;

Macron’s message, which was shared during the question-and-answer appearance on TikTok, seem to have lost in the midst.&nbsp;

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I see <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BohemianClub?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BohemianClub</a> is trending in France because Emmanuel Macron's black T-shirt featured its owl logo — proof, it seems, he belongs to a global secret society. The club, in fact, was founded in San Francisco in the 19th century when the "Bohemian" movement was in vogue.
— Matthew Fraser (@frasermatthew) <a href="https://twitter.com/frasermatthew/status/1422525995018559509?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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In the speculation over logo design, netizens asked all sorts of questions, such as ‘Was it a bird?’, ‘Is it a subliminal message or a secret sign?’, ‘Or just a logo of an owl on a T-shirt?’, etc.&nbsp;

The Élysée Palace, which is the official residence of the President of the French Republic, has not given any official response to questions about the T-shirt.&nbsp;

The speculation seems to have benefitted only the sales of a similar T-shirt, which was being sold online as 'the Macron Tik-Tok T-shirt' for €19.99. &nbsp;

In a recent TikTok session over COVID-19 vaccination on Monday, French president Emmanuel Macron ditched his trademark grey suit, white shirt and tie and donned a trendy look with a black and short-sleeved T-shirt.

In a recent TikTok session over COVID-19 vaccination on Monday, French president Emmanuel Macron ditched his trademark grey suit, white shirt and tie and donned a trendy look with a black and short-sleeved T-shirt. Although the session was organised to encourage French youngsters to get vaccinated, the netizens seem to somehow got stuck with the meaning of the logo of the Macron’s T-shirt. The efforts to allay fears about vaccination seem to somehow not pay off as hours after the session, the social media buzz across the country was over the conspiracy theories cooked up about the logo. Macron’s message, which was shared during the question-and-answer appearance on TikTok, seem to have lost in the midst. I see #BohemianClub is trending in France because Emmanuel Macron's black T-shirt featured its owl logo — proof, it seems, he belongs to a global secret society. The club, in fact, was founded in San Francisco in the 19th century when the "Bohemian" movement was in vogue. — Matthew Fraser (@frasermatthew) August 3, 2021 × In the speculation over logo design, netizens asked all sorts of questions, such as ‘Was it a bird?’, ‘Is it a subliminal message or a secret sign?’, ‘Or just a logo of an owl on a T-shirt?’, etc. The Élysée Palace, which is the official residence of the President of the French Republic, has not given any official response to questions about the T-shirt. The speculation seems to have benefitted only the sales of a similar T-shirt, which was being sold online as 'the Macron Tik-Tok T-shirt' for €19.99.

T-shirt logo in French president’s TikTok session makes netizens wonder 

Hollywood actor Seth Rogen has responded to a hilarious TikTok video that had raised some questions on his well-being and speculated if the actor has been kidnapped or died.&nbsp;

 
“This video is very funny and not at all true! I have not been kidnapped! This is not a kidnapper writing this from Seth’s account! I promise!,” Rogen wrote on Twitter.&nbsp;

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This video is very funny and not at all true! I have not been kidnapped! This is not a kidnapper writing this from Seth’s account! I promise! <a href="https://t.co/FDeQ7UdYox">pic.twitter.com/FDeQ7UdYox</a>
— Seth Rogen (@Sethrogen) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sethrogen/status/1422631122614112257?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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In the two-minute TikTok musical video, the maker had jokingly asked, “Has anyone seen Seth Rogen lately? I’ve seen a lot of photos of his vases. Haven’t seen a recent photo of his face yet. I have a crazy hypothesis. Seth was kidnapped by a shady ceramicist,” the lyrics of the post read.&nbsp;

 
This post in the wake of Rogen religiously sharing posts of new vases among other creations that he has been making in his Hollywood residence.&nbsp;

 
It so happened that Seth Rogen and wife Lauren Miller had attended a pottery class back in 2017 and since then, the ‘Long Shot’ actor has gone all-in on ceramics.&nbsp;

 
Talking about his love and learnings pertaining to pottery, he told a magazine in June. “It makes you very present and focused on whatever it is you’re doing at any given moment. It’s hard to dwell on other things when you’re doing pottery.”

 
Rogen and his wife have also built a studio in their garage with three pottery wheels: one for them each and one for guests.&nbsp;

Hollywood actor Seth Rogen has responded to a hilarious TikTok video that had raised some questions on his well-being and speculated if the actor has been kidnapped or died.

Hollywood actor Seth Rogen has responded to a hilarious TikTok video that had raised some questions on his well-being and speculated if the actor has been kidnapped or died. “This video is very funny and not at all true! I have not been kidnapped! This is not a kidnapper writing this from Seth’s account! I promise!,” Rogen wrote on Twitter. This video is very funny and not at all true! I have not been kidnapped! This is not a kidnapper writing this from Seth’s account! I promise! pic.twitter.com/FDeQ7UdYox — Seth Rogen (@Sethrogen) August 3, 2021 × In the two-minute TikTok musical video, the maker had jokingly asked, “Has anyone seen Seth Rogen lately? I’ve seen a lot of photos of his vases. Haven’t seen a recent photo of his face yet. I have a crazy hypothesis. Seth was kidnapped by a shady ceramicist,” the lyrics of the post read. This post in the wake of Rogen religiously sharing posts of new vases among other creations that he has been making in his Hollywood residence. It so happened that Seth Rogen and wife Lauren Miller had attended a pottery class back in 2017 and since then, the ‘Long Shot’ actor has gone all-in on ceramics. Talking about his love and learnings pertaining to pottery, he told a magazine in June. “It makes you very present and focused on whatever it is you’re doing at any given moment. It’s hard to dwell on other things when you’re doing pottery.” Rogen and his wife have also built a studio in their garage with three pottery wheels: one for them each and one for guests.

‘I have not been kidnapped!’: Seth Rogen refutes ‘funny’ death speculations

A group of researchers from Australia has called for urgent action on implementing age restrictions on TikTok videos to minimise the negative impact of such videos on teenagers.

Researchers from University of Queensland have analysed that the e-cigarette-related content shared by several users on TikTok is very popular on the platform. However, these videos can negatively impact children below the legal age.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/marijuana-magic-plant-or-menacing-drug-legal-or-illegal-its-a-highly-complex-issue-399065">Marijuana: Magic plant or menacing drug, legal or illegal? It's a 'highly' complex issue</a>

A study published in the journal Tobacco Control observed 808 popular vaping videos had been collectively viewed more than 1.5 billion times till November 2020.

Out of these almost a quarter of the people in the videos appeared to be younger than 18 years old. "The use of comedy, lifestyle references, nicotine addiction references, vaping tricks and 'how to' tutorials may create social norms around vaping and increase its social acceptance," the researchers said. "Considering vaping-related videos are widely accessible on TikTok, there is an urgent need to consider age restrictions to reduce youth uptake."

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/cannabis-use-may-be-linked-with-suicidal-thoughts-in-adults-study-394539" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/cannabis-use-may-be-linked-with-suicidal-thoughts-in-adults-study-394539&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjEq9PGmoPyAhV8xjgGHYl5DwIQFjACegQICRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2V0uxS7tvqkyqD_noAGRLe" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cannabis-use-may-be-linked-with-suicidal-thoughts-in-adults-study-394539" target="_blank">Cannabis use may be linked with suicidal thoughts in adults: Study</a>

As per the data, positive use of e-cigarette comprised 63 per cent of the total and was viewed more than 1.1 billion times, while the neutral depictions accounted for nearly 24 per cent.

Since TikTok is a new and popular platform and the algorithm is designed to reach a wider audience, such vaping videos stand a chance to spread faster on TikTok compared to other social media platforms.

"Because it's a relatively new platform, they also can potentially lack in regulations when it comes to effective age restrictions," Tianze Sun, a PhD student at UQ and the study’s first author explained. "Considering the accessibility of these videos to young people, we hope our study can impact future regulatory frameworks for all social media platforms around mandating age verification measures, particularly … on videos that are portraying vaping positively."

This study has come with the background that there has been a significant increase in vaping in young people in recent years.

A group of researchers from Australia has called for urgent action on implementing age restrictions on TikTok videos to minimise the negative impact of such videos on teenagers.

A group of researchers from Australia has called for urgent action on implementing age restrictions on TikTok videos to minimise the negative impact of such videos on teenagers. Researchers from University of Queensland have analysed that the e-cigarette-related content shared by several users on TikTok is very popular on the platform. However, these videos can negatively impact children below the legal age. Also read | Marijuana: Magic plant or menacing drug, legal or illegal? It's a 'highly' complex issue A study published in the journal Tobacco Control observed 808 popular vaping videos had been collectively viewed more than 1.5 billion times till November 2020. Out of these almost a quarter of the people in the videos appeared to be younger than 18 years old. "The use of comedy, lifestyle references, nicotine addiction references, vaping tricks and 'how to' tutorials may create social norms around vaping and increase its social acceptance," the researchers said. "Considering vaping-related videos are widely accessible on TikTok, there is an urgent need to consider age restrictions to reduce youth uptake." Also read | Cannabis use may be linked with suicidal thoughts in adults: Study As per the data, positive use of e-cigarette comprised 63 per cent of the total and was viewed more than 1.1 billion times, while the neutral depictions accounted for nearly 24 per cent. Since TikTok is a new and popular platform and the algorithm is designed to reach a wider audience, such vaping videos stand a chance to spread faster on TikTok compared to other social media platforms. "Because it's a relatively new platform, they also can potentially lack in regulations when it comes to effective age restrictions," Tianze Sun, a PhD student at UQ and the study’s first author explained. "Considering the accessibility of these videos to young people, we hope our study can impact future regulatory frameworks for all social media platforms around mandating age verification measures, particularly … on videos that are portraying vaping positively." This study has come with the background that there has been a significant increase in vaping in young people in recent years.

Urgent action required on vaping videos on TikTok: Study

Social media giant Facebook will pay&nbsp;the creators of popular posts, from fashionistas to comedians and video gamers, $1 billion&nbsp;through 2022.

It is the strongest signal yet that Facebook now recognises the strategic importance of the "creator economy".&nbsp;&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-joe-biden-lashes-out-at-facebook-over-vaccine-misinformation-399119/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

YouTube, TikTok and Snapchat have waged an increasingly fierce battle to attract figures with big followings that can in turn attract serious advertising revenues.&nbsp;

Last November, photo and video app Snapchat began paying $1 million a day to top creators, although the payments have since tapered off. Popular YouTubers have been receiving a slice of the site's billions in ad revenues since 2007.&nbsp;

Facebook has been comparatively slow on the uptake. While the site began paying popular video-makers in 2017, most vloggers have found YouTube to be far more lucrative.&nbsp;

Facebook-owned Instagram has meanwhile launched the careers of many a food blogger and fashion influencer, but the app only began sharing its advertising income directly with them last year.

Traditionally, the bulk of Insta-celebrities' earnings has come through product endorsement deals negotiated directly with brands.&nbsp;

Late to the influencer party

Joe Gagliese, co-founder of international influencer agency Viral Nation, said it was not surprising that Facebook's efforts had lagged behind competitors'.

Founded in 2004, Facebook had already built a hugely lucrative advertising business by the time the phenomenon of full-time internet celebrities emerged at the end of the decade. Courting influencers wasn't crucial to its "primary business", Gagliese said.&nbsp;

But as creators have headed elsewhere, their predominantly young followings have followed, contributing to a sense that Facebook, in the eyes of Gen Z, has become an irredeemably uncool website where their parents hang out.&nbsp;

Facebook's user base is indeed ageing. The proportion of over-65s has shot up roughly a quarter over the past year, almost double the average, according to the Digital 2021 report from media companies We Are Social and Hootsuite.&nbsp;

In the meantime, Chinese-owned TikTok was the world's most downloaded app in the first half of 2021.

It has largely replaced Facebook as the driver of international social media crazes,&nbsp;not least during the pandemic, as bored millions have turned to its dance videos and cooking trends for light relief.&nbsp;

In this context, Facebook's $1 billion gambit is being seen partly as an attempt to regain cultural relevance and stem the youth exodus.&nbsp;

"The only way for these platforms to keep their relevance with younger generations is to understand what resonates with them and keep up with the pace of innovation," said Claudia Cameron, head of marketing and insights at Amsterdam-based influencer agency IMA.

"Creators are a very important part of this equation, as they set the tone for what's cool."

A drop in the ocean?&nbsp;

While young users from Iran to Brazil have been flocking elsewhere, industry insiders say it is far too early to regard Facebook as doomed.&nbsp;

"You can't underestimate them, because they are so powerful when it comes to the tech," said Gagliese.&nbsp;

Facebook's vast income,&nbsp;it raked in $84.2 billion in advertising revenues last year, more than the GDP of some countries,&nbsp;gives it huge funds with which to innovate.&nbsp;

It is also, despite its relative loss of street cred, still growing, with 2.8 billion monthly users worldwide.&nbsp;

Gagliese suggested Facebook should be spending far more on its efforts to lure internet stars from other platforms.&nbsp;

"Unless Facebook leans in really hard,&nbsp;I'm talking, 'way more than a billion dollars' hard,&nbsp;it's going to be very hard for them to attract all these new creators," he said.&nbsp;

Facebook has yet to outline detailed plans for the $1 billion, but Cameron pointed out that a large chunk will likely be distributed via Instagram, which still enjoys a "cool" factor.

That would be good news for TikTok comedian Mwas, who also has a sizeable following there.&nbsp;

"I'm taking a wait-and-see approach," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Social media giant Facebook will pay the creators of popular posts, from fashionistas to comedians and video gamers, $1 billion through 2022. It is the strongest signal yet that Facebook now recognises the strategic importance of the "creator economy".

Social media giant Facebook will pay the creators of popular posts, from fashionistas to comedians and video gamers, $1 billion through 2022. It is the strongest signal yet that Facebook now recognises the strategic importance of the "creator economy". YouTube, TikTok and Snapchat have waged an increasingly fierce battle to attract figures with big followings that can in turn attract serious advertising revenues. Last November, photo and video app Snapchat began paying $1 million a day to top creators, although the payments have since tapered off. Popular YouTubers have been receiving a slice of the site's billions in ad revenues since 2007. Facebook has been comparatively slow on the uptake. While the site began paying popular video-makers in 2017, most vloggers have found YouTube to be far more lucrative. Facebook-owned Instagram has meanwhile launched the careers of many a food blogger and fashion influencer, but the app only began sharing its advertising income directly with them last year. Traditionally, the bulk of Insta-celebrities' earnings has come through product endorsement deals negotiated directly with brands. Late to the influencer party Joe Gagliese, co-founder of international influencer agency Viral Nation, said it was not surprising that Facebook's efforts had lagged behind competitors'. Founded in 2004, Facebook had already built a hugely lucrative advertising business by the time the phenomenon of full-time internet celebrities emerged at the end of the decade. Courting influencers wasn't crucial to its "primary business", Gagliese said. But as creators have headed elsewhere, their predominantly young followings have followed, contributing to a sense that Facebook, in the eyes of Gen Z, has become an irredeemably uncool website where their parents hang out. Facebook's user base is indeed ageing. The proportion of over-65s has shot up roughly a quarter over the past year, almost double the average, according to the Digital 2021 report from media companies We Are Social and Hootsuite. In the meantime, Chinese-owned TikTok was the world's most downloaded app in the first half of 2021. It has largely replaced Facebook as the driver of international social media crazes, not least during the pandemic, as bored millions have turned to its dance videos and cooking trends for light relief. In this context, Facebook's $1 billion gambit is being seen partly as an attempt to regain cultural relevance and stem the youth exodus. "The only way for these platforms to keep their relevance with younger generations is to understand what resonates with them and keep up with the pace of innovation," said Claudia Cameron, head of marketing and insights at Amsterdam-based influencer agency IMA. "Creators are a very important part of this equation, as they set the tone for what's cool." A drop in the ocean? While young users from Iran to Brazil have been flocking elsewhere, industry insiders say it is far too early to regard Facebook as doomed. "You can't underestimate them, because they are so powerful when it comes to the tech," said Gagliese. Facebook's vast income, it raked in $84.2 billion in advertising revenues last year, more than the GDP of some countries, gives it huge funds with which to innovate. It is also, despite its relative loss of street cred, still growing, with 2.8 billion monthly users worldwide. Gagliese suggested Facebook should be spending far more on its efforts to lure internet stars from other platforms. "Unless Facebook leans in really hard, I'm talking, 'way more than a billion dollars' hard, it's going to be very hard for them to attract all these new creators," he said. Facebook has yet to outline detailed plans for the $1 billion, but Cameron pointed out that a large chunk will likely be distributed via Instagram, which still enjoys a "cool" factor. That would be good news for TikTok comedian Mwas, who also has a sizeable following there. "I'm taking a wait-and-see approach," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

What is Facebook's $1 billion gamble to regain lost users?

“Calling all recruiters!” Makena Yee, 21, a college student in Seattle, shouted into her camera in a recent TikTok video. “These are the reasons why you should hire me!”

Yee went on to outline her qualifications. “I’m driven with confidence, I love keeping organized, I’m adaptive and I’m a team player,” she said, as images of companies she had worked for flashed up on a green screen behind her.

The 60-second video quickly racked up more than 182,000 views and hundreds of comments. Users tagged potential employers. “Someone hire herrrr!” one commenter implored. Yee said she had received more than 15 job leads, which she plans to pursue after a summer internship.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/tiktok-is-poised-to-outlast-trump-and-to-test-biden-359069" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/tiktok-is-poised-to-outlast-trump-and-to-test-biden-359069&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwicvaKmtO_xAhU43jgGHeJUCoAQFjACegQIBxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw18exl59qCy5WghryEniqYR" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tiktok-is-poised-to-outlast-trump-and-to-test-biden-359069" target="_blank">TikTok&nbsp;Is Poised to Outlast Trump, and to Test Biden</a>

In modern job searches, tidy one-page résumés are increasingly going the way of the fax machine. That may be accelerated by an app known for viral lip-syncing and dance videos, which is popularising the TikTok résumé.

As more college students and recent graduates use TikTok to network and find work, the company has introduced a program allowing people to apply directly for jobs. And employers, many facing labor shortages, are interested. Chipotle, Target, Alo Yoga, Sweetgreen and more than three dozen other companies have started hiring people via the app.

The TikTok résumé is central to these efforts. Job applicants submit videos with the hashtag #TikTokResumes and through TikTokresumes.com to show off their skills, something like a personal essay of old. They include their contact information and, if they want, their LinkedIn profile. Employers review the videos, which must be set to public, and schedule interviews with the applicants they find the most compelling.

The résumés are an effort to help young people “get the bag” and get paid, Kayla Dixon, a marketing manager at TikTok who developed the program, said in a statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/technology/tiktok-lookalike-facebook-launches-new-app-bars-for-rappers-366736" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/technology/tiktok-lookalike-facebook-launches-new-app-bars-for-rappers-366736&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwicvaKmtO_xAhU43jgGHeJUCoAQFjAFegQICRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1H8KvaDyH8wvF1P8rAtwEY" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/tiktok-lookalike-facebook-launches-new-app-bars-for-rappers-366736" target="_blank">TikTok&nbsp;lookalike? Facebook launches new app, BARS, for rappers</a>

They are also an outgrowth of a part of TikTok called careertok, where people share job-hunting advice, résumé tips and job opportunities. Videos with the hashtag #edutokcareer have amassed more than 1.2 billion views since TikTok was introduced in the United States in 2018.

But the video résumés have also raised concerns. The format strips away a level of anonymity, allowing employers to potentially dismiss candidates based on how someone looks or acts. Much of the networking on TikTok also depends on amassing views, which can be hard for those who aren’t adept at creating content or who have struggled to get equal distribution in the app’s feed.

TikTok is not the first social platform that companies have sought to leverage for recruiting. LinkedIn, the professional networking site owned by Microsoft, is heavily used by both job seekers and recruiters. In 2015, Taco Bell advertised internship opportunities on Snapchat, and in 2017, McDonald’s let people apply for jobs through a Snapchat tool known as “Snaplications.” That same year, Facebook began allowing companies to post job openings to their pages and to communicate with applicants through Facebook Messenger.

TikTok is now taking it further with video applications, rather than a swipe up to a more traditional application page. Although TikTok résumés are open to people of all ages, top videos submitted through the hashtag are from Gen Z users, most of whom are in college. The app said more than 800 applicants had submitted TikTok résumés in the past week.

“Hiring people or sourcing candidates through video just feels like a natural evolution of where we are in a society,” said Karyn Spencer, global chief marketing officer of Whalar, an influencer company that recently hired an employee off TikTok. “We’re all communicating more and more through video and photos, yet so many résumés our hiring team receives feel like 1985.”

Kalli Roberts, 23, a student at Brigham Young University in Utah, said the 2001 movie “Legally Blonde” had inspired her TikTok résumé. She recreated the famous application video that the main character, Elle Woods, played by Reese Witherspoon, submitted in a bid to attend Harvard Law School.

“Please accept this as my formal Elle Woods style video application,” Roberts wrote in the caption. Her TikTok went viral, and she is now interning in TikTok’s global business department.

“I didn’t feel like my personality or who I actually am was captured in my paper résumé,” Roberts said. TikTok let her showcase skills, like video editing and public speaking, that might have been line items on a written application, she said, adding, “I had 10 other companies outside of TikTok say, ‘If they don’t want you, we do.’”

Many recruiters are looking beyond standardized applications online or through networking sites like LinkedIn, said Sherveen Mashayekhi, co-founder and CEO of Free Agency, a startup focused on hiring in the tech industry.

“Cover letters aren’t being read and résumés aren’t predictive, so alternative formats are necessary,” he said. “Over the next five to 10 years, it won’t just be video. There will be these other assessments like games for the early stage of the hiring process.”

Some companies said TikTok résumés were a useful way to evaluate candidates for public-facing roles. Chipotle has posted more than 100 open positions to the app so far to hire restaurant team members, said Tressie Lieberman, the chain’s vice president for digital marketing.

“We do real cooking in our restaurants,” she said. “We’re excited to see people’s cooking skills, whether it’s putting chicken on the grill, knife skills or people making guacamole at home and bringing those capabilities into the restaurant.”

World Wrestling Entertainment is also using TikTok to recruit, said Paul Levesque, the WWE executive vice president for global talent strategy and development, who is better known as the wrestler Triple H. He said video résumés offered a better sense of an applicant’s personality, which is something the company values.

“For us, it’s slightly different than a regular office position where you’re looking at someone’s background,” he said. “We’re really looking for charisma.”

Shopify, an e-commerce platform, said it had started turning to TikTok to find engineers.

“There are smart entrepreneurial technical people everywhere,” said Farhan Thawar, Shopify’s vice president for engineering. “We have this thing where if you can’t explain a technical topic to a 5-year-old, then you probably don’t understand the topic. So having a medium like TikTok is perfect.”

Other employers raised questions about relying on virality to determine a candidate’s worthiness. Adore Me, a lingerie company, began experimenting with recruiting through TikTok in January. Chloé Chanudet, Adore Me’s chief marketing officer, said she worried about who got the most distribution in the feed.

“Plus size or women of color are much more likely to not have their videos published or be under review for several days,” she said. “We have the same worry that their TikTok résumés may be biased from the algorithm.”

TikTok said it “does not moderate content on the basis of shape, size or ability.”

Some Gen Z job hunters said they weren’t deterred. Christian Medina, 24, an aspiring product manager who graduated from college last year, said he had gotten six job leads since posting a TikTok video last month seeking a product management role.

“Finding a job for a recent grad is almost impossible, and LinkedIn was not the most helpful for me,” he said. “I will definitely continue to use TikTok résumés.”

“Calling all recruiters!” Makena Yee, 21, a college student in Seattle, shouted into her camera in a recent TikTok video. “These are the reasons why you should hire me!

“Calling all recruiters!” Makena Yee, 21, a college student in Seattle, shouted into her camera in a recent TikTok video. “These are the reasons why you should hire me!” Yee went on to outline her qualifications. “I’m driven with confidence, I love keeping organized, I’m adaptive and I’m a team player,” she said, as images of companies she had worked for flashed up on a green screen behind her. The 60-second video quickly racked up more than 182,000 views and hundreds of comments. Users tagged potential employers. “Someone hire herrrr!” one commenter implored. Yee said she had received more than 15 job leads, which she plans to pursue after a summer internship. Also read | TikTok Is Poised to Outlast Trump, and to Test Biden In modern job searches, tidy one-page résumés are increasingly going the way of the fax machine. That may be accelerated by an app known for viral lip-syncing and dance videos, which is popularising the TikTok résumé. As more college students and recent graduates use TikTok to network and find work, the company has introduced a program allowing people to apply directly for jobs. And employers, many facing labor shortages, are interested. Chipotle, Target, Alo Yoga, Sweetgreen and more than three dozen other companies have started hiring people via the app. The TikTok résumé is central to these efforts. Job applicants submit videos with the hashtag #TikTokResumes and through TikTokresumes.com to show off their skills, something like a personal essay of old. They include their contact information and, if they want, their LinkedIn profile. Employers review the videos, which must be set to public, and schedule interviews with the applicants they find the most compelling. The résumés are an effort to help young people “get the bag” and get paid, Kayla Dixon, a marketing manager at TikTok who developed the program, said in a statement. Also read | TikTok lookalike? Facebook launches new app, BARS, for rappers They are also an outgrowth of a part of TikTok called careertok, where people share job-hunting advice, résumé tips and job opportunities. Videos with the hashtag #edutokcareer have amassed more than 1.2 billion views since TikTok was introduced in the United States in 2018. But the video résumés have also raised concerns. The format strips away a level of anonymity, allowing employers to potentially dismiss candidates based on how someone looks or acts. Much of the networking on TikTok also depends on amassing views, which can be hard for those who aren’t adept at creating content or who have struggled to get equal distribution in the app’s feed. TikTok is not the first social platform that companies have sought to leverage for recruiting. LinkedIn, the professional networking site owned by Microsoft, is heavily used by both job seekers and recruiters. In 2015, Taco Bell advertised internship opportunities on Snapchat, and in 2017, McDonald’s let people apply for jobs through a Snapchat tool known as “Snaplications.” That same year, Facebook began allowing companies to post job openings to their pages and to communicate with applicants through Facebook Messenger. TikTok is now taking it further with video applications, rather than a swipe up to a more traditional application page. Although TikTok résumés are open to people of all ages, top videos submitted through the hashtag are from Gen Z users, most of whom are in college. The app said more than 800 applicants had submitted TikTok résumés in the past week. “Hiring people or sourcing candidates through video just feels like a natural evolution of where we are in a society,” said Karyn Spencer, global chief marketing officer of Whalar, an influencer company that recently hired an employee off TikTok. “We’re all communicating more and more through video and photos, yet so many résumés our hiring team receives feel like 1985.” Kalli Roberts, 23, a student at Brigham Young University in Utah, said the 2001 movie “Legally Blonde” had inspired her TikTok résumé. She recreated the famous application video that the main character, Elle Woods, played by Reese Witherspoon, submitted in a bid to attend Harvard Law School. “Please accept this as my formal Elle Woods style video application,” Roberts wrote in the caption. Her TikTok went viral, and she is now interning in TikTok’s global business department. “I didn’t feel like my personality or who I actually am was captured in my paper résumé,” Roberts said. TikTok let her showcase skills, like video editing and public speaking, that might have been line items on a written application, she said, adding, “I had 10 other companies outside of TikTok say, ‘If they don’t want you, we do.’” Many recruiters are looking beyond standardized applications online or through networking sites like LinkedIn, said Sherveen Mashayekhi, co-founder and CEO of Free Agency, a startup focused on hiring in the tech industry. “Cover letters aren’t being read and résumés aren’t predictive, so alternative formats are necessary,” he said. “Over the next five to 10 years, it won’t just be video. There will be these other assessments like games for the early stage of the hiring process.” Some companies said TikTok résumés were a useful way to evaluate candidates for public-facing roles. Chipotle has posted more than 100 open positions to the app so far to hire restaurant team members, said Tressie Lieberman, the chain’s vice president for digital marketing. “We do real cooking in our restaurants,” she said. “We’re excited to see people’s cooking skills, whether it’s putting chicken on the grill, knife skills or people making guacamole at home and bringing those capabilities into the restaurant.” World Wrestling Entertainment is also using TikTok to recruit, said Paul Levesque, the WWE executive vice president for global talent strategy and development, who is better known as the wrestler Triple H. He said video résumés offered a better sense of an applicant’s personality, which is something the company values. “For us, it’s slightly different than a regular office position where you’re looking at someone’s background,” he said. “We’re really looking for charisma.” Shopify, an e-commerce platform, said it had started turning to TikTok to find engineers. “There are smart entrepreneurial technical people everywhere,” said Farhan Thawar, Shopify’s vice president for engineering. “We have this thing where if you can’t explain a technical topic to a 5-year-old, then you probably don’t understand the topic. So having a medium like TikTok is perfect.” Other employers raised questions about relying on virality to determine a candidate’s worthiness. Adore Me, a lingerie company, began experimenting with recruiting through TikTok in January. Chloé Chanudet, Adore Me’s chief marketing officer, said she worried about who got the most distribution in the feed. “Plus size or women of color are much more likely to not have their videos published or be under review for several days,” she said. “We have the same worry that their TikTok résumés may be biased from the algorithm.” TikTok said it “does not moderate content on the basis of shape, size or ability.” Some Gen Z job hunters said they weren’t deterred. Christian Medina, 24, an aspiring product manager who graduated from college last year, said he had gotten six job leads since posting a TikTok video last month seeking a product management role. “Finding a job for a recent grad is almost impossible, and LinkedIn was not the most helpful for me,” he said. “I will definitely continue to use TikTok résumés.”

Job-hunters, have you posted your résumé on TikTok?

tiktok

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