Read the latest news about scams, social media, disinformation and other news relating to online safety …
TOP NEWS THIS WEEK:
TACKLING VACCINE DISINFORMATION
Social media platforms have agreed with the UK Government new measures in order to limit the spread of vaccine related misinformation and disinformation. They will also work to promote access to reliable public health information about the new COVID-19 vaccine. Read more here.
SCAMS EXPLOITING CHRISTMAS SHOPPERS
Finance industry research has revealed that as Christmas bargains start to appear online, shoppers are at a higher risk of encountering a scam. This especially applies to shopping for video games and consoles, bicycles and clothes. Read more here.
PROTECTING CHILDREN ON SOCIAL MEDIA
AI technology will tend to recommend content based on what a user has been viewing, even if that means sharing more content relating to self-harm and depression. Ruth Moss discusses what potentially led her daughter, aged 13 years to commit suicide, including the video content she would watch online. Read more here.
MORE NEWS:
TikTok Expands Parental Controls
The social media app, TikTok, has recently released new features allowing parents to change their children’s profile privacy settings remotely. The application will allow parents to block any potential searches from the youngsters and prevent strangers from seeing their posts. TikTok will also report to the parents if the child changes the settings. Read more here.
Don’t Get ‘Petfished’ this Christmas
Government Chief Veterinary Officer urges the public to properly research the sellers when considering buying a new pet this holiday. During lockdown, prices for puppies have more than doubled which raises concerns over unlicensed sellers who breed animals in poor conditions. Read more here.
Consultation to Ban Ads of Fatty Foods Online
A new public consultation has been launched on proposals to ban online adverts for fatty, salty and sweet food in the UK. The proposals are intended to tackle the obesity crisis and improve health and fitness in the UK. Read more here.
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