Livestreaming: how to help safeguard children online
According to Ofcom, in 2020 nearly all children aged 5-15 went online, with 97% watching various forms of content available via video-sharing platforms such as YouTube and TikTok. Some platforms also allow users to livestream with almost half of children aged 8-15 using livestreaming services to watch other people’s live streams and live videos.
Livestreaming, which involves broadcasting live video over the internet, might be watched by hundreds even thousands of people at one time. Appealing to children and young adults alike, livestreaming allows the content creator to reach a wider audience and the viewers to connect with hosts, many in the public eye.
Viewers can normally interact in real-time, leaving comments, emojis and sharing gifts with the hosts. When used appropriately, livestreaming can have a positive impact for those looking to develop confidence and express themselves to a likeminded audience.
Although it can be viewed a positive platform of self-expression, livestreaming is also one of the riskiest activities for children on the web. This type of broadcast, usually public, cannot be cut or edited meaning the content is uncensored, unmoderated and can expose kids to inappropriate content or damaging comments. It is therefore vital parents and carers are aware of the significant risk associated with livestreaming.
Children are also more likely to make bad decisions whilst livestreaming because of the pressure of being ‘in the moment’. This could include sharing sensitive information about themselves or other family members or, sharing risky pictures or videos of themselves. The Guardian reported, in September 2018 the number of suspected incidents of online child sexual abuse referred to the Metropolitan Police increased by 700% since 2014.
Here are our top tips to help safeguard children and vulnerable adults when livestreaming:
- Safety first: Ensure children understand the privacy and safety setting on their device and profiles. For younger children, set up passwords and only permit use when you can engage and check what your younger family members are doing online
- Safe house: Zurich in partnership with online safeguarding specialists, Ineqe Safeguarding Group, provides information about how to activate safety settings on any device from a dedicated safety centre hub. Ensure you are using the best settings provided by your Internet service provider. Find out how to access these, by searching for them on the above site - search by name, then add the phrase 'safety settings' - for example 'BT safety settings'.
- Get familiar: It's important to help young people to understand how to livestream and use video apps safely and check they're speaking to people they already know. How do you know if your kids are using untrustworthy apps? Talk to them. Research the topic yourself, so you have at least a basic knowledge - NSPCC has advice on livestreaming, including how to safeguard children on apps such as Zoom.
- Constant communication: Having a balanced conversation regarding livestreaming can help education and inform children and young adults. You can discuss the positives of having an online presence but also remind your child to be cautious of those who reach out online, especially those who want to talk privately or offline. Talking is the most important tool that you have; let them know we all make mistake.
- Play it safe: If you're anxious starting a conversation about livestreaming safety with your children - try conversation starters such as 'have you heard about this?', rather than 'have you tried this'? Use this chat as an opportunity to have a conversation about staying safe and how you're in it together.
- Get support: Talking to someone about an online problem can be daunting and speaking face-to-face may be difficult. It’s important that a child knows where to go for support if needed, and how to report concerns. If your child is concerned about anything, let them know they can come to you or talk to an adult they trust. You can also signpost any young person to Childline online, if they feel they can't speak to anyone else.
