FTC Bars Online Service from Serving Users Under 18
The US Federal Trade Commission recently made history by barring an online service from serving users younger than 18. The app in question, NGL, was found to have violated child privacy and consumer protection laws, causing harm to children and teenagers.
NGL Labs, the maker of the anonymous messaging app NGL, marketed the app as a “safe space for teens” with strong moderation practices. However, the FTC discovered that the app actually exposed users to cyberbullying and other dangers.
In response to these violations, NGL agreed to a .5 million settlement to compensate affected consumers. Additionally, the Los Angeles district attorney imposed a 0,000 civil penalty on the company.
Lawmakers and regulators are increasingly concerned about the safety of children online. The Surgeon General recently called for a health warning label on social media for teenagers and children, and there is ongoing discussion about the Kids Online Safety Act.
The FTC’s action against NGL is part of a broader effort to protect children online. The agency found that NGL engaged in deceptive practices, including falsely claiming to use AI tools to prevent bullying and sending fake messages to lure users to the site.
NGL has implemented changes required by the settlement, despite disputing some of the allegations. The company’s co-founder, Joao Figueiredo, sees the resolution as an opportunity to improve the app.
Parents of children who have been harmed online and child safety groups have praised the FTC’s action. Kristin Bride, whose son was cyberbullied on anonymous messaging apps, filed a complaint against NGL and believes that these types of apps can lead to tragic outcomes.
