The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has recently initiated a comprehensive review of social media and video-sharing platforms, highlighting the need for improved privacy practices tailored specifically for young users. This initiative is part of the ICO’s ongoing Children’s Code Strategy, which seeks to ensure that online services prioritise children’s safety and personal information.
Concerns for Child Privacy
The ICO’s review included 34 social media and video-sharing platforms, revealing a concerning disparity in how these platforms protect children’s privacy. While some platforms are making strides in compliance with the Children’s Code, many others are falling short.
The ICO has specifically called on 11 of these platforms to clarify how their practices align with privacy regulations. Key areas of concern include default privacy settings, geolocation services, and age assurance measures. These elements are crucial in creating a safe online environment for children, allowing them to navigate the internet without compromising their personal data.
Deputy Commissioner at the ICO, emphasised the importance of protecting children’s personal information. She stated that online services have a “duty of care” to ensure their platforms do not expose young users to risks such as abuse or bullying. This highlights the urgent need for social media companies to enhance their privacy protocols and adopt a more child-centred approach in their design and operations.
In addition to the enforcement actions against non-compliant platforms, the ICO is also reaching out to various stakeholders ranging from online service providers to academics to gather further insights on children’s privacy. This engagement aims to shed light on two critical areas: the use of personal information in recommendation systems and the effectiveness of age assurance methods for users under 13 years old. By collating evidence from diverse perspectives, the ICO aims to bolster its understanding of the challenges and impacts of current practices on children’s privacy.
Global Context
The ICO’s efforts are not taking place in isolation. They align with international trends in child protection, as other countries including those in the USA and Europe are considering similar reforms. The Children’s Code is rooted in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), which recognises the need for special safeguards for children. By adhering to these principles, the ICO is helping to shape a future where children’s rights to privacy and protection are included in digital practices.
The recent survey conducted by the ICO revealed that children are often uncomfortable with data practices on social media, describing them as “nosy” and “rude.” This feedback highlights the necessity for platforms to adapt their services in ways that respect children’s privacy and create a safe online experience.
The ICO has provided a transition period of 12 months for platforms to comply with these new standards. During this time, companies are encouraged to engage actively with these guidelines, demonstrating their commitment to child safety and privacy. Those that fail to adapt risk facing regulatory consequences and falling behind in a market that increasingly values ethical practices.