Although social media is often seen as a platform for interaction, easy access to information, and an escape from life’s mundane moments, it can also pose serious threats to users’ mental health in various dangerous ways. A recent study has revealed which social media platform is the most dangerous regarding online sexual crimes. Here are the platform and the research details…
Snapchat Named as Most Dangerous Social Media Platform!
In the UK, nearly half of all reported crimes involving sexual messages targeting children occurred on Snapchat. According to national police data, 7,062 cases of sexual communication with children were recorded during 2023-2024, with 48% of these cases taking place on Snapchat.
The NSPCC states that Snapchat has serious deficiencies in protecting children and that features like disappearing messages make the platform particularly attractive to abusers. Rani Govender, NSPCC’s Child Safety Policy Manager, emphasized that reported content on Snapchat is not taken seriously enough, leading to negative impacts on children.
The UK government plans to implement stricter measures against platforms like Snapchat. The ‘Online Safety Act,’ which will come into effect in December, will increase technology companies’ responsibilities for protecting children. Under this law, platforms will be required to publish their risk assessments regarding illegal content.
A Snapchat representative told the BBC that they have strengthened content moderation to protect young people and suspend accounts in cases of violation.
We look forward to your thoughts in the comments: Do you think social media platforms are taking sufficient measures to ensure child safety? Don’t forget to share your comments!
