Critical Warning from Experts for Children Following Social Media Operation
While ten suspects were detained in an Istanbul-focused operation across ten provinces targeting criminal content on social media, experts drew attention to children being influenced by sensational influencers.
Within the scope of an investigation conducted under the coordination of the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor's Office, simultaneous operations were carried out in ten provinces. While ten suspects determined to have broadcast criminal content were detained, the incident reignited discussions regarding children's safety in the digital world and their role models.
Simultaneous Operation in Ten Provinces
Within the framework of the investigation conducted under the coordination of the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor's Office, broadcasts made on social media platforms were examined, and simultaneous operations were carried out in ten provinces centered in Istanbul.
Detention Decisions and Suspects Sought
Ten suspects evaluated as having made broadcasts containing fights, threats, insults, tension, and obscenity on various platforms, primarily TikTok, were apprehended and detained. Search efforts are ongoing for five suspects against whom arrest warrants have been issued.
The Impact of Influencers on Children
Artificial intelligence scientist Dr. Yusuf Kartal stated that some social media influencers who come to the forefront with sensational broadcasts today can have an impact on children. Kartal recalled that in the past, scientists and artists were seen as role models.
Legal Dimension and Domestic Solution Proposals
It was pointed out that some social media broadcasts have reached dimensions that could fall within the scope of the Turkish Penal Code. Expressing that the processes of international companies in Turkey can progress slowly, emphasis was placed on the importance of developing domestic social media and live streaming applications.
Emphasis on Awareness Instead of Bans
Touching upon the possibility of banning or restricting access to TikTok in Turkey, experts stated that the problem cannot be solved solely through bans. It was expressed that families' digital supervision and raising awareness are critical instead of excessive prohibitionism.