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The Irish Sun
a day ago
- Politics
- The Irish Sun
‘The exact number of minutes needed for children to become TikTok addicts' & the hidden dangers posed by ‘filter bubble'
IT'S an attention economy and social media companies will do anything they can to keep your eyes on the screen. Now, US President 2 It takes around 35 minutes for a kid to get addicted to TikTok Credit: Getty Images - Getty 2 Olga Cronin wants Dail reps to back a motion to force social media companies to stop using algorithms on children Credit: PR Handout The app has been ordered to find a This is due to concerns that Americans' data could be passed on to the Chinese government. But where is the concern about what these We all know the horror stories of worrying content about eating disorders, violence or misogyny being pushed the way of our So, campaign group People Before Profit has tabled a Here, Olga Cronin, senior policy advisor at the Irish Council for Civil Liberties, tells Irish Sun readers why she believes it is important for all JUST 35 minutes – that's all it allegedly takes for a child to become hooked on Not only that — should a child appear interested in an unhealthy type of content, TikTok's algorithm feeds the child similar unhealthy content in a 'filter bubble'. TikTok users are placed in filter bubbles after just 30 minutes of use in one sitting. These disturbing details were revealed in confidential company documentation disclosed and referenced in a US Trump says he has 'very wealthy people' to buy TikTok after pushing back app ban Why? Because an opportunity has arisen for Irish politicians to support a new bill which could help end this predatory nature of manipulative, harmful and profit-driven social-media algorithms which push content concerning self-loathing, self-harm and ALGORITHMIC PROFILING As the recent Online Safety Monitor from the Children's Rights Alliance called for regulations to require algorithmic profiling to be disabled by default for child and young users, a bill has been put forward by People Before Profit providing for the same. The bill also states that any algorithms based on profiling or sensitive personal data should have to be actively turned on by adult users. The aforementioned US court filing is crucial to understanding why we must demand that these algorithms are turned off by default. TikTok's The court document, from a case taken by the state of "While this may seem substantial, TikTok videos can be as short as eight seconds, and are played for viewers in rapid-fire succession, automatically. Thus, in under 35 minutes, an average user is likely to become addicted to the platform.' THREE STAGES The filing notes how in an internal presentation devoted to increasing user retention rates, TikTok identified three 'moments' when forming a TikTok habit. First there is the Set-up Moment when a young user watches their first video. Next is the Aha Moment when TikTok's algorithm has begun to discern what content a user will respond to, after a child has watched 20 videos or more on their first day on the platform. And finally, there is what they call the Habit Moment in which 'new users start to form a habit of coming to TikTok regularly' which occurs if a youth has watched 260 videos or more during the first week of having a TikTok account. TikTok is aware of negative impacts on its users. The court filing notes how internal reports observed 'compulsive usage correlates with a slew of negative mental health effects like loss of analytical skills, memory formation, contextual thinking, conver-sational depth and emp-athy, and increased anxiety' — and that 'compulsive usage interferes with essential personal responsibilities like sufficient sleep, work/ And yet, the lawsuit alleges TikTok has failed to disclose these harms and continues to mislead the public. The document outlines how the platform's design exploits psychological triggers that cause compulsive usage, such as low-friction variable rewards (where users are randomly rewarded with engaging content), social manipulation (where users are encouraged to interact and engage with the content), and ephemeral content (which creates urgency by presenting time-sensitive material). CYCLE OF ADDICTION These features make it difficult for users to control their time on the platform, creating a cycle of addiction. But this is not just about TikTok. All Big Tackling this problem is long overdue and, if 35 minutes is all it takes to addict a young child to TikTok, time is not on our side. Politicians of all hues should get on board with this bill and have these manipulation machines turned off.
The Irish Sun
4 days ago
- Politics
- The Irish Sun
People on public transport deserve to feel safe & that's Govt priority with bold new plans, says Darragh O'Brien
IRELAND has been beset by anti-social behaviour on public transport for a number of years. The 2 A dedicated Transport Security Force is being established Credit: Getty Images - Getty 2 Minister for Transport Darragh O'Brien Credit: � 2024 PA Media, All Rights Reserved The rise in incidents ranging from verbal abuse and intimidation to physical assaults has endangered passengers and staff, and also damaged trust in the In the run up to the general election, This force will operate under the National Transport Authority. Writing in the Irish Sun on Sunday today, Minister for Transport READ MORE IN OPINION MY priority for the next five years of this government is to drive forward a transformative programme of investment in sustainable and modern transport infrastructure to boost I want to continue to invest in reliable, accessible, and efficient transport links between our towns, cities, and rural areas. This includes expanding our bus and rail fleets, building new rail stations, and accelerating the electrification of public transport. We are progressing several major projects nationwide that will significantly improve Ireland's transport system. BusConnects is a transformative programme of investment in the bus system, providing better bus services across our cities. Most read in The Irish Sun In These aim to provide over 200km of enhanced bus and WORK PROGRESSING I am pleased to say that An Bord Pleanála has approved all 12 Core Bus Corridor applications in Dublin. My department aims to have the first of the Core Bus Corridors in construction this year. We have also received planning approval for DART+ West and full approval for DART+ South West and the new DART+ Fleet, currently undergoing testing, which will start rolling out on the Northern line from Dublin to/from In April 2025, I was pleased to open a new 'through' platform at Kent Station in Works are also continuing on the Cork Area Commuter Rail Programme Phase 1 works and I look forward to these being complete in 2026. Luas Cork, the new light rail project for the city is also progressing. For public transport to function effectively and accommodate a growing number of A reliable and secure system not only protects passengers and staff but also builds public confidence, encouraging greater use of sustainable transport. One of my key priorities is addressing safety on public transport. While significant progress has been made in recent years through increased investment in safety measures, antisocial behaviour — or even the perception of it — remains a serious challenge. SAFE AND SECURE NETWORK Those who rely on or work within our public transport system must feel secure. That is why I have initiated work to establish a dedicated Transport Security Force, which was a key commitment in the Programme for Just this week, I met with the While the past few years have seen significant progress on investment in safety measures, antisocial behaviour remains a serious issue, and it is those who regularly use and work within our public transport network who are most directly impacted by any safety or security incidents. Work in the Department for Transport is advancing around identifying the necessary legislative proposals to progress the Transport Security Force commitment, in conjunction with the NTA. The decisions over the appropriate model for the Transport Security Force are in the preliminary stages of the deliberative process. The introduction of such a force will require the development of legislation too which can have a significant lead time, but I will keep the public updated as we progress through the various stages. Underpinning this commitment to delivering a safe and secure public transport network, the ongoing interim work on public transport safety will continue, as will the support and funding for operator measures, such as the recent extension of the Dublin Bus Security Pilot Scheme. EMERGENCY ALARMS All public transport operators are continuing to expend significant resources introducing measures to counter the impact of antisocial behaviour. For example, all services are now fully fitted with CCTV cameras, various text alert systems and control centres have been introduced. Across the operating companies, security screens and safety cabins are provided where possible for driver safety. There are emergency alarms onboard all vehicles which can be activated by drivers to contact their central control centres. As Minister for Transport I am continuing to work closely with industry stakeholders to identify measures to improve passenger safety. We have established a public transport safety working group, with representatives from the public transport operators, the commercial bus sector, the NTA, unions, I will continue to engage with operators and unions and will continue to work with all stakeholders to provide safe, sustainable public transport.
Scottish Sun
5 days ago
- Lifestyle
- Scottish Sun
My hack to keeping cool this weekend without fancy aircon works so well, it makes a room a little too cold
THERE'S nothing more frustrating than trying to fall asleep in a hot and stuffy room. However, a simple hack may be able to help, keeping you cool throughout the hot weekend around the corner. 2 Brits are set to enjoy glorious weather this weekend - but it's a nightmare if you don't have aircon Credit: Getty 2 The mum later chuckled that the hack worked so well, she was feeling a little too cold Credit: tiktok/@lucascraftyco Since the majority of UK households don't have air conditioning, millions of people resort to using fans or other gadgets in the warm weather. However, fans only help to cool down your body temperature, and not the stuffy temperature of the room. So if you're looking to elevate this and feeling an instant cooling effect, a simple step can help. One mum, only known as @lucascraftyco, recently shared a handy hack for creating a DIY air conditioner in your home - and chances are, you already have all the necessary items. For your very own DIY aircon, you will need a fan, water, empty plastic bottles, as well as an optional egg box. The rest is straightforward and foolproof - simply pour some water into the bottles and freeze them overnight. The following morning, she demonstrated in the video, place them in front of your fan and voila, feel the magic happen. The egg box is thought to keep the bottles high enough for the fan air to reach them for the extra cooling effect. According to the TikTok video, the hack is so effective it even works a little too well, the mum chuckled. ''I'm actually now a bit cold,'' she wrote in the caption. I transformed my garden patio into summer haven for less than £100 with cheap B&M buys including gadget to keep bugs out This trick works creating a localised cooling effect, similar to a personal air cooler. According to experts, ice absorbs heat from the surrounding air as it melts. This is why placing ice in front of a fan can help to lower the air temperature. How to keep cool in hot weather Most of us welcome hot weather, but when it's too hot, there are health risks. Here are three ways to keep cool according to the NHS... Keep out of the heat if you can. If you have to go outside, stay in the shade especially between 11am and 3pm, wear sunscreen, a hat and light clothes, and avoid exercise or activity that makes you hotter. Cool yourself down. Have cold food and drinks, avoid alcohol, caffeine and hot drinks, and have a cool shower or put cool water on your skin or clothes. Keep your living space cool. Close windows during the day and open them at night when the temperature outside has gone down. Electric fans can help if the temperature is below 35 degrees. Check the temperature of rooms, especially where people at higher risk live and sleep. The fan then helps to circulate the cooled air, ensuring that the cooling effect isn't limited to just the area directly around the ice. And while this hack have the same effect as an actual AC unit, it can provide a noticeable and refreshing breeze in the immediate area. It is also more cost-effective than running an air conditioning unit. However, it is also worth noting that this method can increase the humidity in your room. Stay cool this summer And a doctor has revealed the exact time to shower to keep cool in the hot weather. Plus, six methods for keeping cool in the hot summer conditions, including repurposing your hot water bottle. Or there are savvy steps you can take to keep your space cool without breaking the budget.
The Irish Sun
5 days ago
- Lifestyle
- The Irish Sun
My hack to keeping cool this weekend without fancy aircon works so well, it makes a room a little too cold
THERE'S nothing more frustrating than trying to fall asleep in a hot and stuffy room. However, a simple hack may be able to help, keeping you cool throughout Advertisement 2 Brits are set to enjoy glorious weather this weekend - but it's a nightmare if you don't have aircon Credit: Getty 2 The mum later chuckled that the hack worked so well, she was feeling a little too cold Credit: tiktok/@lucascraftyco Since the majority of UK households don't have air conditioning, millions of people resort to using fans or other gadgets in the warm weather. However, fans only help to So if you're looking to elevate this and feeling an instant cooling effect, a simple step can help. One mum, only known as @ Advertisement READ MORE ON HOMES For your very own DIY aircon, you will need a fan, water, empty plastic bottles, as well as an optional egg box. The rest is straightforward and foolproof - simply pour some water into the bottles and freeze them overnight. The following morning, she demonstrated in the video, place them in front of your fan and voila, feel the magic happen. The egg box is thought to keep the bottles high enough for the fan air to reach them for the extra cooling effect. Advertisement Most read in Fabulous According to the TikTok video, the hack is so effective it even works a little too well, the mum chuckled. ''I'm actually now a bit cold,'' she wrote in the caption. I transformed my garden patio into summer haven for less than £100 with cheap B&M buys including gadget to keep bugs out This trick works creating a localised cooling effect, similar to a personal air cooler. According to experts, ice absorbs heat from the surrounding air as it melts. Advertisement This is why placing ice in front of a fan can help to lower the air temperature. How to keep cool in hot weather Most of us welcome hot weather, but when it's too hot, there are health risks. Here are three ways to keep cool according to the NHS... Keep out of the heat if you can. If you have to go outside, stay in the shade especially between 11am and 3pm, wear sunscreen, a hat and light clothes, and avoid exercise or activity that makes you hotter. Cool yourself down. Have cold food and drinks, avoid alcohol, caffeine and hot drinks, and have a cool shower or put cool water on your skin or clothes. Keep your living space cool. Close windows during the day and open them at night when the temperature outside has gone down. Electric fans can help if the temperature is below 35 degrees. Check the temperature of rooms, especially where people at higher risk live and sleep. The fan then helps to circulate the cooled air, ensuring that the cooling effect isn't limited to just the area directly around the ice. And while this hack have the same effect as an actual AC unit, it can provide a noticeable and refreshing breeze in the immediate area. It is also more cost-effective than running an air conditioning unit. Advertisement However, it is also worth noting that this method can increase the humidity in your room. Stay cool this summer And a doctor has revealed the Plus, Or there are savvy steps you can take to keep your space cool without breaking the budget. Advertisement
The Irish Sun
6 days ago
- Health
- The Irish Sun
The ‘number 1' simple safety step all parents MUST take in school hols and how to avoid potential risks at home & abroad
SUMMER is finally here and today children say goodbye to school for the holidays. 2 The summer months can pose extra risks to children Credit: Getty 2 Dr Abigail Collins shared her tips for keeping children safe this summer Credit: Photocall Ireland Dr Abigail Collins, 'In the home, we are more aware of potential dangers, but with good ' "This includes thinking ahead about potential risks, such as unsupervised access to a balcony or pool, or going to a 'It's important to take steps to prevent heat exhaustion and sunburn, too. 'Parents can find advice on a wide range of topics on the HSE website to help keep children safe and healthy during the next few months.' THE most important thing is to supervise your child at all times. If you're out and about with children and other adults, it can be easy to assume the other person is supervising them in busy places such as outdoor events or playgrounds. Always be clear on who is supervising the child and when. If you're going somewhere new with your child, think ahead. What are the potential risks and how can you address them? B&M launches their children's outdoor range which is perfect for summer - there's a £2 bargain that'll easily keep the kids entertained For example, a relative's home might not be child-proofed, so may have dangerous items within their reach, such as chemicals under the sink or medicines in a handbag. If you're on holiday with a Ensure there is a locked gate or door between your child and the pool. Don't forget to apply for your Before leaving CLOTHING TIPS Make sure that babies and children drink enough fluids. Children are at higher risk of heat exhaustion or heatstroke because their bodies heat up much faster than adults' bodies. Wear Early morning starts or departing just after food can give children Try to reduce motion if possible, distract them by talking, listening to SWIM SAFETY Discourage them from reading, watching films or using screens. Break up long journeys to get some fresh air, drink water or take a walk. It's important to think about water safety. The Never leave a child alone in a paddling pool. Empty them after use and store them so that they cannot fill with rainwater. Teach your child to swim when they are at the right age, but you should still always supervise a child in and near water. MEASLES REPORT You can reduce the risk of poisoning by keeping products, such as dishwasher tablets, plant feed, batteries, room fresheners including liquid reed diffusers, plants, and essential oils out of your child's reach and sight. Also teach children not to put plant parts in their mouths. Be protected with the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. The most recent monthly data shows that measles cases and outbreaks have been reported in many European countries. These include popular summer holiday destinations, as well as countries further afield (such as There is a concern that measles outbreaks may occur in Ireland this summer as families with unvaccinated children and adults travel to countries where measles cases have been reported. Babies aged six to 11 months can get an MMR
