Apple App Store Hosts Inappropriate Apps Rated Safe for Children

Apple’s App Store, a hub for millions of digital applications, is drawing criticism for hosting scores of apps deemed inappropriate for young users. A recent report reveals that hundreds of apps labeled as suitable for children as young as 12 contain questionable content. This oversight raises serious concerns about the safety and well-being of young app users.

Unveiling the Dark Side of Apple’s App Store

In a comprehensive review of 800 apps over 24 hours, organizations such as Parents Together Action and the Heat Initiative discovered 200 apps with inappropriate content. These apps were incorrectly categorized as “safe” for users as young as four years old. The issues span a broad spectrum, from apps promoting unhealthy beauty practices to those simulating drug dealing.

Among the flagged apps were those offering AI-powered face ratings, virtual girlfriends, and chat services with strangers. Additionally, certain apps provided access to anonymous messaging and VPNs, potentially enabling users to view forbidden content such as pornography within school or family Wi-Fi networks.

Risks and Consequences

The availability of such apps poses significant risks. The report highlighted the potential for drug simulators and violent games to expose young users to harmful content. Furthermore, anonymous chat apps can facilitate cyberbullying, depression, and self-harm, as research indicates anonymity can embolden users to engage in harmful online behavior.

Specific categories fared particularly poorly in terms of age-appropriate ratings. Weight loss apps and VPN services were nearly all deemed suitable for very young children. The authors of the report argued that the current system lacks oversight, with no third-party child development experts involved in rating processes.

Financial Incentives vs. Child Safety

The report uncovered a financial motive driving the issue. Both Apple and app developers benefit from widespread app distribution, as more downloads typically translate to higher engagement and earnings. This creates a conflict of interest, prioritizing commercial gain over child safety.

To address this, the report calls for independent, third-party verification of app age ratings, akin to the oversight mechanisms in the film industry through The Motion Picture Association (MPA).

Broader Critique of Apple’s App Store

This is not the first time the App Store has faced scrutiny. Critics have long accused Apple of engaging in anti-competitive practices, restricting rival services and developers. In a significant blow, Apple was fined €1.8 billion in March 2024 by the EU for abusing its dominant position and limiting access to rival music-streaming apps like Spotify.

As these controversies continue to unfold, it remains to be seen how Apple will respond. While the company has not yet commented on the latest report, it faces increasing pressure to improve its oversight and ensure that the App Store remains a safe environment for all users.

In light of these reports, consumers, parents, and regulators need to remain vigilant. Responsible app usage and oversight are critical to protecting young users from harmful content and experiences.

The coming months may reveal whether Apple will implement meaningful changes to address these issues. For now, users must exercise caution when downloading apps, especially those aimed at younger audiences.

About Will McCurdy

Contributor

A reporter covering weekend news, Will McCurdy’s work spans multiple platforms including BBC News, The Guardian, and The Times of London. Passionate about the intersection of technology and human lives, he has covered a wide range of topics from crypto scandals to geopolitical affairs.

Read the latest from Will McCurdy