YouTube is implementing new policies concerning firearm videos to prevent potentially harmful content from reaching underage users. The Google-owned site declared on Wednesday that it is going to stop allowing videos that show users how to take out safety devices for firearms. Additionally, videos featuring homemade guns, automatic weapons, and specific firearm accessories like silencers will be restricted to users aged 18 and above.

These changes, effective from June 18, come in response to calls from gun safety advocates urging YouTube to take action to prevent gun-related videos from reaching its youngest users. Critics argue that such content could potentially traumatize children or lead them toward extremist ideologies and violence. Katie Paul, director of the Tech Transparency Project, welcomed the move as a positive step but questioned why it took YouTube so long to implement these policies. She emphasized the importance of effective enforcement to ensure that the platform's actions align with its stated policies.

YouTube's decision follows concerns raised by researchers and public officials about the accessibility of firearm-related content to young users. Last year, studies revealed that YouTube's recommendation system directed graphic videos of school shootings and gun training to simulated accounts of young boys interested in video games. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg commended YouTube's new policy, stating that such content was influencing young individuals and contributing to public safety concerns.

The platform justified its policy changes by citing new developments like the availability of 3D-printed guns. YouTube, along with TikTok, remains popular among children and teenagers, raising concerns about the content's potential impact on young viewers. Social media platforms have faced criticism in the past for hosting and promoting content that glorifies violence or encourages harmful behaviors. The implementation of these new policies reflects YouTube's ongoing efforts to strike a balance between user safety and content moderation.