YouTube introduces enhanced limitations on firearm videos | Technology Updates

June 7, 2024 TruthUSA

YouTube is implementing new restrictions on videos featuring guns following calls to limit potentially traumatic content. Starting from 18 June, the platform will not allow videos demonstrating the removal of firearm safety devices.

YouTube, owned by Google, will also restrict videos showing homemade guns and automatic weapons for users under 18.

Campaigners have applauded the move but stress that YouTube must demonstrate real actions to prevent children from being exposed to potentially harmful content that could incite violence.

Gun-related injuries have been the leading cause of death for children and teenagers in the US since 2020, according to the Washington-based National Institute for Health Care Management (NIHCM) Foundation.

In 2022, the number of US children dying or being injured by gunfire reached a record high.

Katie Paul, director of the Tech Transparency Project, questioned why the platform took so long to issue a new policy, and said the group will look to see how effectively YouTube enforces its new rules.

“Firearms are the number one cause of death for children and teens in America,” said Ms Paul, whose group has long sought stronger age controls on online gun videos.

“As always with YouTube, the real proof of change is whether the company enforces the policies it has on the books.

“Until YouTube takes real action to prevent videos about guns and gun violence from reaching minors, its policies remain empty words.”

Last year, researchers at the Tech Transparency Project created YouTube accounts that mimicked the behavior of nine-year-old American boys interested in video games. They found that YouTube’s recommendations forwarded graphic videos of school shootings, gun training, and how-to instructions on making firearms fully automatic to these accounts.

One video showed an elementary school-age girl with a handgun, while another depicted using a .50 caliber gun to shoot at a dummy head filled with realistic blood and brains. Many of these videos violated YouTube’s policies against violent or gory content, as stated by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg last month.

YouTube stated that the policy changes aim to address new developments, such as the availability of 3D printed guns in recent years. Users under 17 must have parental permission to use the site, while accounts for users under 13 are linked to a parent or guardian’s account.

“We regularly review our guidelines and consult with outside experts to ensure we are setting appropriate boundaries,” said company spokesman Javier Hernandez.

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