TikTok users in Malaysia will now have more ‘Screen Time Management’ options to manage the time they spend online. From today, users will be able to select if they want to spend 40, 60, 90, 120 minutes per day on the app. Having to set a lock to limit yourself, and then just entering a password would release said lock, doesn’t seem like it’ll stop much. Also, isn’t TikTok known for having all types of weird, gross content? Like, young teens and kids post videos of them dancing, in a pretty provocative and suggestive manner. And people are okay with this? Sure, it’s a small part of their content, but it’s still there.

In the press release, TikTok mentions updating their Restricted Viewing Mode feature, check out what they had to say:

“Additionally, TikTok is upgrading its Restricted Viewing Mode feature, which once enabled, will limit the appearance of content that may not be appropriate for all audiences. The feature is also activated via password, which will be valid for 30 days. This tool, powered by machine learning algorithms, empowers users to take control of the content they watch.”

I mean, the fact you have to update a ‘feature’ to support this already tells you what kinda trash is on TikTok. Overall, disgusting old men trying to comment or make videos with underage girls. Hello, TikTok? You got pedophiles on your site, consider doing something about it. The fact they can do it so openly is what’s scariest. Check out this video and what I mean when I say this.

So next time you see a teenager, or some kid you know on TikTok, make sure they’re safe. The world is full of weirdos, and we don’t want to endorse an app that doesn’t do enough to stop it.

(Update) 

TikTok reached out to us and gave us an update on their online situation and community. Here’s what they said addressing the things I mentioned in the article.

“As a company that promotes a global community that thrives on creativity and expression, we understand the concern and perception on TikTok among the public and have therefore been taking serious steps in promoting online safety in Malaysia. To achieve this, we believe that working hand-in-hand with media such as yourself is key in promoting a positive and safer environment among the online community. For this reason, we thank you for your article and hope to be able to understand and address your comments together.”

Okay fine, I’ll take it back slightly. If they work out what things plague the community, I’m willing to give credit where credit is due. TikTok does address a need for people, especially young, impressionable kids to make funny, creative short videos to share with their friends and the internet. But the thing people should always consider, is that whatever goes on the internet, STAYS on the internet. So please, still be cautious. With this, I’ll mention some of the things TikTok are doing to address these concerns. TikTok launched a new safety feature for their Malaysia users. This new feature allows them to self-define keywords they would like to filter in their comment section.

TikTok also partnered with P.S. The Children Malaysia, Yayasan Generasi Gemilang and Majlis Kebajikan
Kanak-kanak Malaysia to raise awareness on online safety with a focus on children and underserved
communities. The campaign encourages the adoption of positive online habits through the TikTok app, with In app quizzes and customized stickers.

So while I personally have issues with somethings on the app, I can appreciate TikTok having the sense to better their platforms and the lives of others.

With all this being said, let’s never forget the REAL Tik Tok.