Schools across Northern Ireland have been targeted by bogus TikTok accounts in which pupils rate their teachers. They warned some of the content was abusive and may constitute a crime under misuse of telecommunications or harassment.
TikTok videos had caused real distress to those targeted
Teachers’ union NASUWT said a significant number of schools were affected with some teachers off sick as a result. Lurgan Junior High School, in County Armagh, contacted police over the content of one video posted on the app.
Justin McCamphill, from the union, said the trend had begun after the Halloween school break before gaining momentum in recent days.
He said parents should be aware of their young peoples’ activities, while schools and employing authorities should act because of the extreme distress caused in some cases.
We are calling on school principals and governors to co-operate with the PSNI to ensure this activity can be properly investigated. “We warn parents and pupils that they need to be aware of the consequences of this.
Justin McCamphill – Teachers’ union NASUWT
The posts often feature footage from learning resources used by teachers during lockdowns
Tom Rogers is one of dozens of teachers who have reported harassment on social media in recent weeks, some of whom have signed off sick. History teacher Mr Rogers had been unaware that a clip from one of his virtual lessons had been uploaded to TikTok until a colleague alerted him last week. When he searched the platform, he found two videos posted from an anonymous account with a combined total of about 12,000 views.
The PSNI confirmed reports of a number of incidents where fake TikTok accounts for local schools have been set up. A spokesman said the accounts had then posted images of school staff with inappropriate comments.
Young people may be competing with each other by making potentially defamatory comments without thinking of the stress they are causing. The content ranged from mild to extreme videos, including clearly criminal content, although all of it was uncomfortable for teachers.
The government plans to introduce laws to make social-media companies more accountable
We are aware of this growing online trend which is completely unacceptable. While those involved may not see the harm in their actions, they are causing real distress to the individuals targeted. We will continue to monitor the situation and provide relevant support and guidance as appropriate. The issue of safeguarding and child protection is a key priority for the minister.
Spokeswoman – Education Authority
The Safer Schools NI app launched today is a further example of the importance of access to proper safeguarding resources for teachers, parents/carers, children and young people.
The app supplements the safeguarding and child protection support already provided to schools by giving up-to-date advice and support on topical issues from safeguarding experts.
TikTok says it is taking extra measures to remove videos targeting teachers
TikTok remove any content that violates these guidelines
Our community guidelines make clear that we do not allow accounts that impersonate people in a deceptive manner, nor do we tolerate content that contains bullying or harassment, statements targeting an individual, or hateful speech or behavior.
Spokeswoman – TikTok
