Reporting allows users to flag content on social media, such as posts, images, comments or profiles, that may be harmful, upsetting or inappropriate.
Most social media platforms have their own rules to explain what is and isn’t allowed. These rules are often called community guidelines or terms of use. When someone reports content, the platform checks whether it breaks these rules before deciding whether to remove it.
Reporting doesn’t always mean the content will be taken down, but it’s still an important step in helping your child feel safer and more in control online.
Why is reporting needed?
Children and young people may come across content that is:
- Offensive or upsetting
- Misleading or fake
- Inappropriate or illegal
They may be unsure how to respond or feel nervous about reporting something, especially if they think it might get someone else in trouble.
By law, platforms have a responsibility to protect children. removing harmful content and enforcing age limits. If children and young people still across this content, they need to know how to report and when to ask for help.
For help with how to report on social media, find guides for a range of platforms from Internet Matters.