Visual copyright: TikTok Safety Centre
Online challenges typically involve people filming themselves performing an action, which they then share online to encourage others to do the same.
Most of these videos are amusing and harmless, but some of them encourage dangerous behaviour, which in some cases can lead to serious injury.
What should you do if you see a challenge online?
You can assess the risks in four simple steps:
- Stop, take a break
- Think for a moment
It can be difficult to assess online challenges. If you see a video, take a moment to think about what you have seen, how it made you feel, and how you want to respond. Ask yourself the following questions: Is it dangerous? Is it real? If you have any doubts, check with an adult.
- Decide
If it is risky or dangerous, or if you still have doubts, do not do it. It is not worth putting yourself or others in danger.
- Act
Report dangerous challenges or hoaxes directly from the app. Do not share them.
How can you support your teenager?
Adolescence is a phase of intense exploration and experimentation. This is why online challenges can be particularly appealing to them.
Furthermore, adolescents do not always have the same skills to assess risks. This means that they may need more information and guidance to identify which challenges are safe and which are likely to be unsafe.
It is therefore crucial to talk to them about it. Show them that you understand they may be curious about online challenges and that you are willing to talk about them, listen to them and learn with them.
When discussing challenges they may have seen or heard about, assist them in identifying potential risks, considering the consequences (including the possibility of themselves or others being injured), and making safe choices.
For further information, please visit the TikTok Safety Centre.
