TikTok is the most popular social networking app among adolescents, but it appears that the company is attempting to attract older users.
The video app has announced the availability of an option for live broadcasts restricted to adults only.
TikTok asserts that the new feature might be utilized for mature comedy routines or live streams about “tough life events.”
Nonetheless, other users have been quick to warn that the function may be used to display sexual content, with one claiming that TikTok is following the OnlyFans model.
This week, TikTok introduced the new adults-only function via a blog post.
It was emphasized that TikTok is founded on community trust and safety.
‘To secure our users and creators and promote their well-being, we are always improving the measures we’ve implemented.
Today, we are implementing additional adjustments and enhancements to help our community enjoy the best LIVE experience possible.
Currently, users must be at least 16 years old to broadcast a live stream on TikTok; however, anyone can watch these live streams.
However, this age restriction will increase to 18 next month, and producers will have the option to restrict their audiences to those 18 and older.
TikTok stated, “Perhaps a comedic routine is more suited for individuals over the age of 18.”
Or, a host may like to discuss a challenging life situation and would feel more at ease if the discourse were limited to adults.
Nonetheless, some users have argued that the function may be exploited to display sexual information.
One user wrote, “Feeling much better today, only to realize that Tiktok is going the path of the only fan.”
Another commentator said, “TikTok’s addition of adult-only live streaming demonstrates how cam Girling has become a mainstream vocation.”
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TikTok now prohibits nudity and pornographic content.
On its Community Guidelines, it claims, “We endeavor to establish a welcoming and secure community.”
We prohibit nudity, pornography, and graphic sexual content on our platform.
We also ban content that depicts or encourages non-consensual sexual behaviors, the sharing of non-consensual personal pictures, and adult sexual solicitation.
Jake Moore, a cybersecurity specialist at ESET, cautioned that live streams are more difficult to ban than submitted content.
In an interview with MailOnline, he remarked, “Live streaming appears to be the next big thing for many social sites, but with this new dimension come additional issues such as privacy.”
‘The footage is less likely to be inspected by TikTok’s algorithm if it can be live-streamed, as real-time monitoring is difficult.
If the content were to become offensive or, worse, obscene, the platform’s initial purpose may take a nosedive.
MailOnline has reached out to TikTok for additional details on how it intends to assess live streams in real time.
