How to block kids from using TikTok’s ‘Live’ feature?

TikTok’s ‘Live’ feature lets users broadcast real-time videos to their followers. It can be appealing to young users who want to connect with friends and share their experiences. However, parents may have concerns about their kids using this feature due to potential risks:

Exposure to inappropriate content: Users can stumble upon live streams that contain mature content, violence, or other unsuitable material.
Cyberbullying: The live setting can be a platform for cyberbullying, where users can make hurtful comments or spread rumors.
Online predators: While TikTok has safety features, it’s important to be aware that online predators could attempt to contact minors through live streams.

While these risks are a concern, it’s crucial to approach the topic with a balanced perspective and implement appropriate safety measures.

TikTok’s Built-in Parental Controls

TikTok offers built-in parental controls to help manage your child’s experience on the platform. You can use these controls to restrict access to the ‘Live’ feature, ensuring your child doesn’t see or participate in live streams.

Here’s how to access and manage these controls:

Open the TikTok app and log into your child’s account.
Tap on the ‘Profile’ icon in the bottom right corner.
Tap on the ‘Three horizontal dots’ icon in the top right corner.
Select ‘Settings and privacy’.
Choose ‘Digital Wellbeing’.
Tap on ‘Family Pairing’.
Select ‘Link a Family Account’.
On your own device, open TikTok and scan the QR code displayed on your child’s screen.
Once linked, tap on ‘Manage Family Account’.
From the ‘Family Pairing’ menu, you can now adjust the settings for your child’s account. This includes restricting the ‘Live’ feature. Tap on the ‘Live’ option to turn it off.

These controls will prevent your child from seeing live streams and from going live themselves. You can also manage other settings like screen time limits and content restrictions within the ‘Family Pairing’ menu.

Third-Party Apps and Software

Third-party parental control apps and software offer more comprehensive control over your child’s device usage than built-in settings. These tools allow you to manage screen time, block specific apps, and filter content. They can effectively block TikTok’s ‘Live’ feature, even if the app itself is not fully blocked.

Here are some reputable options that are easy to use and effective:

mSpy – This app allows you to monitor your child’s device activity, including their TikTok use. You can block specific apps and features, like ‘Live,’ and set screen time limits.
FlexiSpy – Offers robust features, including the ability to monitor social media activity and block unwanted features. You can set rules and limitations to restrict access to TikTok’s ‘Live’ function.
Google Family Link – A free app designed to help parents manage their children’s Android devices. You can set app limits, block specific apps, and review your child’s app usage. This is a good option if you’re looking for a free and user-friendly solution.
Norton Family – Offers a wide range of features to control your child’s online activity. It allows you to block specific apps and features, limit screen time, and monitor web browsing. Norton Family is known for its comprehensive features and strong reputation.
Qustodio – Another comprehensive parental control app that offers various features, including app blocking, website filtering, and screen time management. You can use Qustodio to restrict access to TikTok’s ‘Live’ feature and monitor your child’s overall app usage.

Open Communication and Digital Literacy

While blocking TikTok’s ‘Live’ feature can be a quick fix, it’s important to remember that open communication and digital literacy are crucial for your child’s online safety. Here’s how you can approach this:

Start a conversation: Talk to your child about the potential risks of using the ‘Live’ feature, such as:

Exposure to inappropriate content or behavior
Unwanted contact from strangers
Cyberbullying
Privacy concerns

Set clear rules and boundaries: Together, create a set of rules for your child’s online activity, including:

Time limits for using TikTok
Specific times when they can and cannot use the app
Prohibited content or features

Teach them responsible online behavior: Explain the importance of:

Thinking before posting anything online
Not sharing personal information
Being respectful of others online
Knowing how to report inappropriate content

Encourage open communication: Let your child know that they can come to you with any concerns or questions about their online experiences. By fostering a safe and open environment, you can empower them to make responsible choices online.

TikTok’s ‘Live’ feature can be a valuable tool for connection and entertainment, but it also presents unique challenges for parents concerned about their children’s safety and well-being online. To effectively manage your child’s use of ‘Live’, a multifaceted approach is essential. Here’s a summary of the most effective methods and our final recommendation:

TikTok’s Built-in Controls:

Set a ‘Digital Wellbeing’ Time Limit: Limit the amount of time your child can spend on TikTok, including Live features.
Restrict Direct Messages: Disable direct messages, preventing your child from interacting with unknown users during Live streams.
Use ‘Restricted Mode’: This setting filters out content that may not be suitable for younger audiences, including Live streams that could contain inappropriate material.

Third-Party Tools:

Parental Control Apps: Consider using free parental control apps like Google Family Link or OurPact, which offer comprehensive controls for managing app usage and screen time. For more advanced features and real-time monitoring, you might explore paid options like mSpy.
Content Filtering Software: Some software filters content based on keywords or categories, blocking access to Live streams that may be inappropriate.

Open Communication:

Discuss Online Safety: Have open and honest conversations with your children about safe online behavior, emphasizing the risks associated with Live streaming and interacting with strangers.
Set Clear Guidelines: Establish clear rules about when, where, and how your child can use TikTok, including Live features.

Final Recommendation: Combining TikTok’s built-in controls, third-party tools, and open communication with your children is the most effective approach to managing their use of TikTok’s Live feature. By establishing a foundation of trust and understanding, you can empower your children to navigate the digital world safely and responsibly.