Type of Resource

Research and Evidence

Publication Date

May 21, 2025

Topic/s

Harmful or inappropriate content  

NSPCC Learning has published new research examining the design features of online platforms that can facilitate or promote abusive communications with young female users. The research explored the design of ten video-sharing, social media, gaming and messaging platforms, using fake accounts for a fictitious 14-year-old girl; interviews with experts; and user journey mapping. Findings show: online service design can be exploited to identify, target and abuse girls; risky design features are built into the entire user journey; and platforms place the onus on girls to protect themselves online. The report proposes solutions and urges the Government and technology companies to put measures in place to mitigate unsafe design features and protect girls on digital platforms.

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