Protecting Teens from Harmful Algorithms and Data Exploitation

Common Sense Media has issued a strong statement urging New York Governor Hochul and the legislature to prioritize the SAFE for Kids Act and the New York Child Data Protection Act in their budget proposals. These legislative measures aim to safeguard minors from the exploitation of their personal data and the negative impacts of addictive algorithms used by social media platforms. With increasing evidence linking prolonged social media use to mental health issues among youth, the organization emphasizes the urgent need for protective measures. Key features of the proposed legislation include restrictions on data collection from minors and the prohibition of algorithms designed to keep users engaged at the expense of their well-being. This initiative is crucial for ensuring a safer digital environment for children and teens, aligning with Common Sense Media's mission to advocate for healthier online experiences for families.