TikTok Users Fleeing to RedNote

From alarming data breaches to AI’s growing role in classrooms, this week’s stories reveal both challenges and opportunities for keeping kids safe online. Let’s dive into the top tech stories parents need to know.

Users Moving to China’s RedNote Ahead of New TikTok Ban

With the possibility of a TikTok ban looming, U.S. users are flocking to Xiaohongshu — referred to as Red Note in English — a Chinese social media app, making it the top download on the U.S. App Store.

Dubbed “TikTok refugees,” many users are creating accounts on Xiaohongshu in protest, using hashtags like #tiktokrefugee to mark the transition.

Many of these users are moving to Red Note with little or no knowledge of potential dangers on the platform, which is particularly concerning for younger users.

US TikTok users flock to Chinese app Xiaohongshu in protest with TikTok ban looming | AP News

Safeguard Your Child’s Vision in a Device-Heavy World

Eye-care specialists share top tips — like setting screen breaks and ensuring proper lighting — to reduce the risk of digital eye strain.

One standout tip includes the “20-20-20 rule,” encouraging kids to look away from screens every 20 minutes for 20 seconds.

With screen time growing ever more prevalent, protecting children’s eye health is a key pillar of broader digital wellness.

Three expert tips to protect your child’s eye health in a digital world | The Guardian

Social Media’s Responsibility to Protect Young Users

Tech leaders propose platform-wide safety settings, enhanced age verification, and using AI to monitor harmful behavior.

One notable recommendation is “delayed engagement features,” which could discourage addictive scrolling for minors.

In a digital world where kids are increasingly active online, platform accountability plays a critical role in keeping them safe.

How Social Media Platforms Can Protect Kids: Tech Experts’ Insights | Forbes

Historic School Data Breach Exposes Millions of Records

Hackers infiltrated PowerSchool’s systems, accessing “all” historical student and teacher data, including names, addresses, Social Security numbers, and more.

A striking detail reveals that the breach impacted both active and former students and staff, with some districts reporting 4 to 10 times the number of currently enrolled students affected.

In an era of increasing cyberattacks, safeguarding student data is vital to protect identities and maintain trust in digital learning tools.

PowerSchool data breach victims say hackers stole ‘all’ historical student and teacher data | TechCrunch

AI Steps to the Head of the Class

One pilot program is using artificial intelligence as a primary teaching method for certain subjects, guided by human educators.

A standout feature is “digital tutors” that adapt lessons in real time, aiming to personalize instruction for every student.

As classrooms integrate more technology, striking a balance between AI and human oversight becomes essential for safe, effective learning.

This School Will Have Artificial Intelligence Teach Kids (With Some Human Help) | Education Week

Other Headlines

• TikTok creators prep for ban: Lemon8, SaveMyTikToks & More | Hypebot

• Short-lived bling, dumb smart things, and more: The worst in show from CES 2025 | The Register

• Apple’s AI feature just can’t get it right | Mindstream

• This Could Be Your AI Robot Girlfriend — For $175,000 | CBS News

• TikTok could get a 270 day extension to make a deal | The Verge

• Parents ‘should have access to kids’ social media’ | BBC

Did we miss anything?

Any other important tech news from this week? Let us know in the comments below.

Author Robert Milligan

Rob is a Gabb staff writer with a passion for stories and over a decade of experience. As a father of three, he loves anything that lights up his kids' worlds and sparks their imaginations. Rob is dedicated to helping families navigate the digital world safely while fostering creativity and meaningful connections.