Video-streaming apps like TikTok raise red flags for young audiences

Much like other social media platforms, TikTok is deemed suitable for users who are 12 and above on iTunes as well as Google Play and therein lies the rub

Within seconds of the video beginning, a young girl steps in front towards the camera, taking your attention away from the life-size teddy bear and heart-shaped cushion on the bed behind her. She then rolls up her t-shirt and ties it up and begins to dance for as long as the generic but catchy music lasts. That’s 15 seconds. It’s long enough for one to realise she’s well-versed in belly dancing. It’s also long enough to get the distinct impression that she can’t be older than 16.

TikTok (which includes Musical.ly), Kwai and Helo are the latest video-sharing apps that