Source: BBC News
Date published: 04 March 2026
The BBC has published a news story discussing TikTok’s decision not to introduce end-to-end encryption to its direct messaging system. TikTok informed the BBC that it aims to protect young people by ensuring that police and safety teams are able to read direct messages when necessary. The story also discusses how different apps use end-to-end encryption and the reception of TikTok's decision from organisations including the NSPCC.
Read the news story: TikTok won't protect DMs with controversial privacy tech, saying it would put users at risk
Source: Channel 4 and Molly Rose Foundation
Date published: 05 March 2026
Channel 4 has aired a documentary telling the story of Molly Russell who took her own life at 14-years-old after accessing harmful online content relating to self-harm and suicide on social media. Through Molly’s story, the film highlights the broader issue of harmful online content and the role that platform design and economic business models play. The Molly Rose Foundation has launched a campaign calling on the government to end algorithms that target harmful content towards young people and to take action against big tech companies to ensure they make safety and wellbeing a priority. There are also supporting resources for parents to talk to their children about Molly’s story and harmful online content.
Watch the documentary: Molly vs the Machines
Access the campaign resources: Live Long & Stay Strong - Molly vs The Machines
Online Grooming (Breck Foundation)
In February 2014, 14-year-old Breck Bednar from Surrey was groomed online by an 18-year-old male he met through gaming. Over several months, the older individual manipulated Breck into trusting him and distancing himself from his family. Breck was lured to a flat under false pretences and was fatally stabbed. The offender later pleaded guilty and received a life sentence with a minimum term of 25 years.
Following Breck’s death, his mother set up the Breck Foundation in his memory to raise awareness of online grooming, exploitation and digital risk, and to educate children, families and professionals so that other young people are better protected when using online spaces.
Safer Internet Day 2026 - Tuesday 10th February 2026
Safer Internet Day is a global awareness day that encourages children, young people and adults to think carefully about how we use the online world and digital technology. It’s a useful annual prompt to refresh conversations about online safety, wellbeing and responsible digital behaviour.
Theme for 2026: Smart tech, safe choices – exploring the safe and responsible use of AI.