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Online dangers amplified for girls with additional needs
3 Jun
Summary
- Girls with additional needs are shown more harmful content.
- They are more likely to use AI chatbots and trust advice.
- Online safety charity calls for robust age checks.
A recent report highlights that social media algorithms are intensifying online vulnerabilities for girls with additional needs, exposing them to significant harm. This includes increased exposure to content on self-harm and eating disorders compared to their peers.
The research indicates that children with additional needs are more likely to use AI chatbots and are more susceptible to online bullying. They also report greater difficulty controlling their screen time, often becoming engrossed in online content.
Experts suggest that girls with additional needs spend more time online, starting from a lower baseline of well-being. This, combined with algorithm design, can trap them in cycles of harmful content exposure.
Internet Matters, an online safety charity, is advocating for mandatory robust age checks and consistent legislative reviews to ensure adequate protection for all children online.
Regulators like Ofcom emphasize a safety-first approach, including tackling harmful algorithms and age checks, with enforcement action threatened for non-compliant tech firms. The government is also consulting on social media restrictions for under-16s, including AI chatbot usage.
