YouTube viewers to help uncover how users are sent to harmful videos

YouTube viewers are being asked to become "watchdogs" and record their use of the site to help uncover the ways in which its recommendation algorithm can lead to online radicalisation. Mozilla, the non-profit behind the Firefox web browser, has produced a new browser extension, called RegretsReporter, which will allow YouTube users to record and upload information about harmful videos recommended by the site, as well as the route they took to get there. "For years, people have raised the alarm about YouTube recommending conspiracy theories, misinformation, and other harmful content," said Ashley Boyd, Mozilla's head of engagement and advocacy. "One of YouTube's most consistent responses is to say that they are making progress on this and have reduced harmful recommendations by 70%. But there is no way to verify those claims or understand where YouTube still has work to do. "That's why we're recruiting YouTube users to become YouTube watchdogs.