A damning new report has exposed how children in the UK are being exposed to violent and degrading pornography online, with dangerous algorithms amplifying harmful content. The findings highlight a growing crisis in digital safety, as tech platforms fail to protect young users from explicit material.
How Algorithms Are Failing Children
The study reveals that recommendation algorithms on popular platforms are actively pushing extreme and degrading pornographic content to underage users. Instead of filtering harmful material, these systems often prioritise engagement, leading children down a rabbit hole of increasingly violent and exploitative videos.
The Impact on Young Minds
Experts warn that early exposure to such content can have severe psychological consequences, including distorted views of relationships, consent, and sexuality. Campaigners are calling for stricter regulations to hold tech companies accountable for the content their algorithms promote.
Urgent Calls for Action
Child safety advocates are demanding immediate intervention from policymakers. Proposed measures include:
- Stronger age-verification systems
- Transparency in algorithmic recommendations
- Heavy fines for platforms that fail to protect minors
With children spending more time online than ever, the need for robust safeguards has never been more critical.
