WhatsApp introduces 'Parent-Managed Accounts' for children under 13; here’s how it works

Bengaluru, Mar 15: In a significant move to enhance digital safety for minors, Meta-owned WhatsApp has introduced a new feature called 'Parent-Managed Accounts.' Designed specifically for children under the age of 13, this feature allows parents to monitor and control their children's activities on the messaging platform, ensuring a safer online environment.

While WhatsApp is widely used for online classes and staying connected with family, parents have long expressed concerns over privacy and exposure to strangers. This new update aims to address those anxieties by giving parents the "master key" to their child's digital interactions.

Total parental control

With Parent-Managed Accounts, parents have the authority to decide who their children can communicate with and which groups they can join. A key safety mechanism ensures that children cannot view message requests from unknown numbers directly. Instead, these requests are diverted to the parent for approval. Only after parental consent is granted can the chat proceed.

To prevent children from bypassing these security measures, WhatsApp has implemented a six-digit 'Parent PIN.' This PIN is required to change any privacy settings on the child's device.

Restricted features for safety

To minimise exposure to unfiltered content, several standard WhatsApp features have been disabled for accounts managed by parents. These include:

• WhatsApp Status: Children will not be able to post or view status updates.

• Channels: Access to public broadcast channels is restricted.

• Meta AI: The AI chatbot feature is disabled for users under 13.

How to set up a Parent-Managed Account

Parents can set up this secure environment by following these steps:

1. Download & Language: Install WhatsApp on the child's phone and select the preferred language.

2. Account Type: Navigate to 'More Options' and select 'Create a Parent-Managed Account.'

3. Details: Enter the child's mobile number and date of birth for verification.

4. Linking: Open WhatsApp on the parent's phone and scan the QR code displayed on the child's device.

5. Parental Verification: Confirm the parent is over 18 and create a unique six-digit 'Parent PIN.'

6. Finalisation: Enter this PIN on the child's phone to complete the setup.

A step toward a safer digital world

This update comes at a time when states like Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh are deliberating on potential social media bans for children under 16. Meta's approach suggests that rather than an outright ban, providing robust parental oversight tools may be a more effective way to navigate the digital age.