Minimum age according to Terms of Use: 13+
What is TikTok?
TikTok is an app that allows users to create and share short video clips—often featuring music, sound bites, filters, and special effects. Content ranges from dance and challenges to tutorials, comedy sketches, and personal stories. It is especially popular among young users due to its algorithm, which continuously suggests new content on the “For You” page tailored to a user’s interests. TikTok also includes features like direct messages and live streams, which increase engagement—but also potential risks.
What parents should watch out for:
Exposure to inappropriate content
Despite TikTok’s efforts to filter content by age, children can still easily come across videos containing violence, profanity, sexual content, drug references, and other inappropriate behavior.
Dangerous viral challenges
TikTok is known for “trends” and challenges that spread quickly. Some are harmless, but many can be dangerous, encouraging self-harm or reckless behavior. Kids often participate for popularity without considering the consequences.
Direct messages and contact with strangers
Even if a child’s account is set to private, strangers may still attempt to make contact through messages. Some of these may be disturbing, sexually suggestive, or part of online manipulation attempts. Make sure your child’s account reflects their real age, as TikTok limits certain content and features for users under 15 or 13.
Addiction and overuse
TikTok’s endless feed can draw users into watching more and more content, often resulting in hours spent on the app without realizing it. This can negatively impact sleep, school, and free time.
Mental health and self-esteem
The focus on likes, views, and comments can cause anxiety, feelings of inadequacy, and low self-confidence. Influencers’ idealized lifestyles often set unrealistic standards, especially for adolescents still forming their identity.
Data privacy concerns
TikTok has faced criticism over how it collects and uses user data, complicating the issue of children’s online safety.
Advice for parents
Enable Family Pairing
TikTok’s Family Pairing feature allows parents to link their TikTok account with their child’s and gain insight into:
- Time spent on the app
- Types of content viewed
- Privacy settings
- The ability to limit direct messages
Check if your child’s account is private
TikTok automatically sets accounts for users aged 13–15 to private, but it’s important to double-check settings to ensure only approved followers can see posts or contact your child.
Talk about challenges and trends
Explain to your child that not everything popular is safe. Encourage them to ask themselves, “Would I do this even if no one saw it?” before participating in trends.
Watch out for live streams
TikTok no longer allows users under 18 to livestream, but it’s important children understand why sharing personal information with strangers is risky. Children can change their age in settings and try to stream anyway—without your knowledge.
Open conversations are key
Talk about topics such as peer pressure, sexual exploitation, the pressure to appear “perfect,” and how to report disturbing content. Don’t wait for something bad to happen to bring these issues up.
Additional support and reporting
If you’re concerned about your child’s online safety:
- Helpline: 0800 200 880
- Report illegal content: www.netpatrola.rs
- Suspected online abuse: Contact the police immediately
- Remove explicit photos: www.ncii.csi.org.rs
- More resources: www.cnzd.rs
- Free psychological and legal support: kontakt@cnzd.rs
Useful links:
- https://www.tiktok.com/safety/en/guardians-guide
- https://www.tiktok.com/safety/en/well-being-guide
- https://www.internetmatters.org/digital-family-toolkit/?utm_source=Partners_TikTok&utm_medium=website&utm_campaign=alwayson&utm_content=_wellbeingguide_MFDT
