TikTok responds to criticism: We provide a safe platform for users while protecting freedom of expression

TikTok has made statements regarding recent criticisms.

In a statement on this important issue, the Safer Internet Day event, organized to draw attention to more conscious and safe internet usage for everyone, especially young people, was held at the BTK Central Campus in Ankara on February 12 and 13. At the event, which was implemented under the coordination of the BTK, workshops on conscious internet usage were held for young internet users, while panels discussed topics such as how social networks can be made safer for young people and how a safe internet can improve life. Emir Gelen, TikTok's Head of Public Policy for the Middle East, North Africa, and Turkey region, who gave a speech on making social networks safer for young people, explained what they are doing to protect young people from cyberbullying on the platform.

"WE ARE WORKING TO MAKE IT A MORE RELIABLE PLACE FOR YOUNG PEOPLE"

Emphasizing that they care deeply about ensuring TikTok is both a safe and beneficial platform, Emir Gelen also explained the applications they have developed by consulting with security teams and experts for the digital safety of young people:

"Thanks to the 'Family Pairing' feature and 'Parental Guide' we launched in 2020, we aimed to help parents use their children's accounts more securely. In addition, we automatically limited the screen time of users in the 13–18 age group to 60 minutes and introduced a password requirement for them to continue watching. With these and similar applications, we are working to make our platform a more reliable place for young people."

ARE USERS IN DANGER?

Underlining that they are constantly striving to ensure the safety of their users while protecting freedom of expression, Emir Gelen continued his words as follows:

"Our efforts to provide an enriching discovery experience will continue. We are committed to providing both a warm space for those who want to express themselves and an enjoyable environment for our community."

TikTok, which is actively used by many people in Turkey and is also preferred by a significant number of SMEs and brands, is able to reach a wide user base. The efforts regarding safety and conscious usage emphasized at the Safer Internet Day event represent important steps taken toward the platform's goal of creating a safer and healthier environment for young people and families.

With such solutions, the platform remains firmly committed to enriching the user experience by prioritizing not only freedom of expression but also user safety."