Minimum age according to Terms of Use: 13+
What is Bluesky?
Bluesky is a modern microblogging platform and a direct competitor to X (formerly Twitter), co-founded by Twitter’s former CEO Jack Dorsey. It’s designed for posting short text updates, with options to comment, like, and “re-skeet” (share). Users can follow others, send direct messages, and build personalized feeds based on interests like art, gaming, news, jokes, or hobbies.
What parents should watch out for:
Decentralized network – less moderation
Bluesky uses the AT Protocol, allowing users to create their own servers and rules. This means there’s no central content control, raising the risk of prolonged exposure to violent, explicit, or disturbing content.
Risk of inappropriate contact
Users can receive messages from strangers. While blocking is available, direct messages can be used for harmful or manipulative contact.
No algorithmic protection
Unlike platforms with filtering algorithms, Bluesky users choose their own feeds. This gives more freedom—but also exposes children to unfiltered content and niche communities with minimal oversight.
Mental health impacts
As with other social platforms, the pressure to gain likes or go viral can negatively affect self-esteem—especially in teens.
What parents should know:
- Custom feeds: These can be used to tailor content positively but require active curation
- Blocking tools: Users can block others; blocked users can’t view their content
- No algorithmic manipulation: Less trending content pressure, but greater risk of echo chambers
Advice for parents:
- Set clear rules about using new platforms—recommended only with adult supervision and ideally after age 16
- Discuss risks of sharing personal info (location, school, private plans)
- Keep communication open—check in regularly on their online interactions and emotions
Additional support and reporting:
- Helpline: 0800 200 880
- Report illegal content: www.netpatrola.rs
- Suspected online abuse: Contact the police
- Remove explicit photos: www.ncii.csi.org.rs
- More resources: www.cnzd.rs
- Free psychological and legal support: kontakt@cnzd.rs
