WhatsApp introduces optional parental controls for teenagers
WhatsApp is rolling out optional parental controls that allow parents to monitor group activity and privacy settings for teenagers. While framed as a safety feature, critics argue the optional nature of the tools limits their effectiveness.
Why it matters
This move highlights the ongoing tension between tech companies, regulators, and parents regarding the safety of minors on social media platforms.
Image source, Getty Images By Laura Cress Technology reporter Published 28 minutes ago WhatsApp is introducing new parental controls for teenagers, as tech companies continue to come under pressure to provide more age-appropriate experiences for children.
The social messaging app's new tools will give parents a range of options, such as being told when their child joins or leaves a group. It will also let them decide on privacy settings for their account.
In a blog post, WhatsApp, clarified parents would not be given the power to see the messages their teen is sending and receiving, which along with calls would stay private and protected by end-to-end encryption.
And it said the controls were optional, which social media analyst Matt Navarra called an "obvious weakness".
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