Social media platforms are continuing to expose teenagers to harmful content related to suicide, self-harm, and depression, despite new UK online safety laws, according to a report by the Molly Rose Foundation. Researchers created dummy accounts posing as a 15-year-old girl and engaged with such posts, leading algorithms to flood the accounts with harmful material on Instagram Reels and TikTok’s For You page.
The analysis found that 97% of recommended videos on Instagram Reels and 96% on TikTok were harmful. Over half of TikTok’s harmful recommendations referenced suicide or self-harm ideation, and 16% included suicide methods. Some content reached vast audiences, with one in ten harmful TikTok videos liked at least one million times.
Andy Burrows, chief executive of the Molly Rose Foundation, said: “Harmful algorithms continue to bombard teenagers with shocking levels of harmful content, and on the most popular platforms for young people this can happen at an industrial scale.” He criticised Ofcom’s measures as a “sticking plaster” and called for stronger action.
The report noted that while platforms allow negative feedback on recommended content, they also permit positive feedback, which can increase exposure. It also highlighted that platforms profit from advertising alongside harmful posts, including ads for fashion brands and UK universities.
An Ofcom spokesperson said: “Change is happening. Since this research was carried out, our new measures to protect children online have come into force.” Technology Secretary Peter Kyle added that 45 sites are under investigation and that Ofcom is considering stronger measures, including proactive technology to protect children.
TikTok and Meta both disputed the findings. TikTok said its teen accounts have over 50 safety features, while Meta called the report “misleading” and noted it had introduced over 30 tools to support teens and parents.
