South African Children Demand Better Online Privacy Protections

Johannesburg, 20 November 2024 – As we celebrate World Children’s Day, young people across South Africa are calling for urgent action to improve online privacy and safety measures. In three ground-breaking reports published by Media Monitoring Africa (MMA) and Web Ranger partners, children have shared their concerns and solutions for protecting their privacy in an increasingly digital world.

The reports, consisting of user experience and safety research by MMA’s Article 12 Working Group and surveys of young people aged 13–17 across South Africa, reveal critical gaps in how social media platforms and digital services protect children's data and privacy. These insights shed light on the urgent need for social media platforms, policymakers, and civil society to collaborate for a safer and more private digital environment for children.

Some of the Key Findings across the reports include:

• Insufficient Privacy Protections: Platforms like TikTok and Instagram often default to public settings for minors, exposing them to risks. Privacy protections are inconsistent, with stronger measures available in regions like the U.S. and U.K. but not in South Africa.
• Distrust of Digital Services: Only 25% of surveyed children trust digital platforms to handle their data responsibly, while 42% express concerns about misuse and lack of transparency.
• Desire for Control: Young people want more control over their personal data, easier ways to delete information, and clear, child-friendly privacy policies.

What Young People Want:

From workshops and surveys, South African children identified actionable steps to enhance their privacy online:

1. Default Privacy Settings for Minors: Platforms must ensure accounts for users under 18 default to private settings worldwide.
2. Transparency and Consent: Clear explanations about data collection and the ability to make meaningful decisions about sharing personal information.
3. Reduced Data Tracking: Limit the collection of sensitive data like location and biometric information.
4. Child-Inclusive Design: Involve young people in shaping platform policies and features to ensure their needs and rights are prioritized.

A Call to Action:

Children make up a significant portion of online users, yet their voices often go unheard. As one child participant stated, “Privacy is the right to be free and to have personal boundaries. It gives us safety, security, and comfort.”

MMA urges all stakeholders to take these findings seriously and work towards creating a digital world where young people can thrive safely and privately.

Please find the two reports here:

1. Young people’s technical study
2. Young people’s perspective on privacy

About Media Monitoring Africa:
Founded in 1993, MMA is dedicated to promoting ethical journalism and protecting human rights in South Africa. By championing children’s rights and leveraging technology for impactful change, MMA continues to work with others to lead the way in creating safer online spaces for young people.

Contact:
For more information or to arrange interviews, please contact:

MMA contact person: Phakamile Madonsela: phakamilek@mma.org.za