WhatsApp is launching parent-managed accounts for children under 13, a move driven by global concerns over social media's impact on youth and rising security threats. These accounts offer restricted messaging and calling features, with strict default settings and parental controls.
Parents can dictate who contacts their child's account and which groups they join. They can also review message requests from unknown contacts and manage privacy settings, aiming to provide a safer digital introduction for pre-teens.
This initiative follows increased scrutiny of chat apps due to hacking incidents and mental health concerns, mirroring regulatory actions seen in countries like Australia.