Children Lie About Their Age Online and Access Content Not Meant for Them
At least half of underage teenagers have lied about their age to access more content online. This is revealed in Panteia research regarding the monitoring of food and alcohol marketing.
Of the 520 children aged six and older surveyed, 46% admitted to providing a higher age online at least once. Teenagers are more likely to do this than younger children: 51% of teenagers confessed to doing so, compared to 35% of children under ten. It should be noted, however, that the actual number of “lying children” is likely higher, as some respondents may have been dishonest when answering questions about their behaviour.
Children report falsifying their age to gain access to social media platforms such as TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram, which require users to be at least 13 years old. Additionally, a higher age may grant access to content not suitable for young children, such as violent or frightening videos. This latter point is particularly concerning, as the online world is not as regulated as traditional media like radio and television. Children risk encountering content online that could be highly damaging.
Since it is challenging to verify a user’s real age online in a straightforward manner, it is crucial to account for children’s behaviour. Knowing where to look online and how to avoid inappropriate content is a key aspect of media literacy. It is important that parents and other caregivers support their children in this regard.
Marketers must also consider children’s behaviour online. When targeting advertisements at an adult audience, there is a significant chance that children will also be exposed to these ads. As a result, children may encounter advertisements for unhealthy foods, alcohol, or gambling.
The research into social media use and behaviour regarding age verification has been used as input for the following reports:
