LIVESTREAMING AND ONLINE VIDEO APPS SOURCE: NSPCC   

Livestreaming is broadcasting to an audience in ‘real time’. The audience can leave comments, give likes to the person who is streaming and, in some cases, ‘gift’ the streamer. Some platforms let several people livestream at the same time.

Children and teenagers are likely to have spent more time on livestreaming and video apps in the last few years. While many children will be using these apps to talk to friends or family, some children may be talking to people they don’t know, or sharing personal information without realising. NSPCC has got advice to help you understand the risks and keep them safe.

Why do young people livestream?

Young people and children like to livestream and use video apps for lots of reasons. These include:

• learning or show others how to do something; livestreams of people playing video games are particularly popular
• staying in contact with family and friends
• taking part in viral trends, such as challenges
• being creative or as a means of self-expression
• relaxing – many video apps have ‘satisfying content’, such food being prepared or ASMR
• entertainment – there is lots of funny content, or linked to hobbies or trends
• or even to making money or becoming an influencer

For the risks of livestreaming and the main livestreaming platforms click here.

Tips to keep your child safe

• Talk to your child - Talk to them about what they're doing online and how to stay safe. Let them know they can come to you, or another adult they trust, if they feel worried or upset by anything they've seen online. They can also get support from Childline on 0808 1111.
• Explore apps and sites together - Explore what your child likes to do online together. This can help you to understand why they're using certain. Explore the features that are available, which would include privacy settings, location settings, and how to block and report.
• Agree what's appropriate together - Agree your own rules as a family when using apps, sites or games.  You can use our family agreement template to help get you started.
• Check your settings - Check the technology your family uses and use privacy and location settings to keep your child safe. You can call your mobile and broadband provider to find out how to do this or visit NPSCC parental controls page to find out more.