Recently, there has been a growth of gun content and videos on YouTube that appeared inappropriate for children and minors' accounts, and now the platform is taking a more proactive approach against it. In a new update, YouTube revealed that it will apply age restrictions for gun and gun-related content on the platform, but only for specific types of content.
It is a start, but it does not exactly remove the liberty to watch other types of gun content, such as video games and similar content, off these accounts.
YouTube Age Restrictions for Gun Videos is Coming Soon
A new disclaimer on YouTube's support document under Firearms policy is revamping the age restrictions for guns and gun-related content on the platform. The restriction is coming soon, as the company said it would start applying it on June 18. It centers on several specific types of firearm content on the platform that could bring the wrong information to children.
Some of the highlighted restrictions of Google and YouTube include how-to videos on homemade firearms, including firearms and accessories, which will be age-restricted.
However, the platform will outright prohibit access to tutorials on how to remove certain safety devices.
Gun Content Recommendation to Children on YouTube
In a statement to Engadget, YouTube detailed that this new update aims to maintain its policies and safety on the platform, especially for the young audience. YouTube spokesperson Javier Hernandez reiterated that it also consulted with experts regarding the changes to its guidelines and policies, one of which allows them to put restrictions where they are needed.
YouTube Age Restrictions for Safer Platform
While certain content on YouTube is outright prohibited from the platform, and its content moderation team removes some if they violate the guidelines, some are permitted but only for appropriate age groups. Even the renowned 'mukbang' content online is now seeing tighter rules on the platform as part of its eating disorder content restrictions.
It is also known that YouTube and Google restricted themselves from using personalized ads for kids on the platform after its previous policy change because it is known to use their activity and data. However, in 2023, children's advocacy groups tapped into the FTC to investigate Google for allegedly showing targeted ads to kids despite previous claims.
YouTube has placed age restrictions to provide a layer of safety on the platform but allow grown-ups and those of legal age to decide whether or not they will see the content. Now, YouTube is adding a new content category for its age restrictions on the platform, centering on real gun content and other related videos that will be prohibited from access by children and those below the age of legality.
