YouTube details further efforts to protect children from online predators

YouTube has addressed the growing problem of minors victimized by online predators on its platform.

In a blog post, the company detailed how it’s taking further action on its comments section, one of the main areas where the abuse takes place.

First, YouTube is hunting down videos with minors, and content that can be subjected to predatory behaviour, and having their comments section disabled.

“These efforts are focused on videos featuring young minors and we will continue to identify videos at risk over the next few months,” the company explained.

YouTube claims that some “low risk” videos will not have their comments disabled, but will need to be actively monitored and moderated by creators.

“We will work with them directly,” the firm notes.

A new comments classifier will also be launching. This feature helps identify and remove comments that violate YouTube’s policies.

Finally, the video sharing platform has begun terminating channels that incite violence and harm towards children in the form of dangerous pranks and challenges.

“We recognize that comments are a core part of the YouTube experience and how you connect with and grow your audience. At the same time, the important steps we’re sharing today are critical for keeping young people safe,” YouTube noted.

Feature image: Memeburn