Minimum age according to Terms of Use: 13+

What is Facebook?

Facebook is a social network that allows users to create profiles, share status updates, photos, and videos, communicate through private messages (Messenger), join groups, follow pages, and engage with other users’ posts. While it’s less popular among kids compared to TikTok or Instagram, Facebook still has a massive user base and provides access to a wide variety of content, communities, and direct communication—making it important for parents to understand the potential risks.

What parents should watch out for:

Vast and unfiltered content

Facebook is flooded with user-generated content from all over the world. Children may encounter:

• Hate speech
• Violent videos
• Sexually suggestive or explicit posts
• Misinformation and propaganda

Private messaging (Messenger) with no parental oversight

Messenger enables private exchange of text, photos, and videos. As a result:

• Children can be contacted by complete strangers
• Predators often use Messenger after initiating contact in public posts
• Harassment and grooming commonly occur here

Weak protection against fake accounts and impersonation

Facebook allows account creation without identity verification, which means:

• Children can create accounts before the age of 13
• Adults can pretend to be children
• There are no automatic checks to prevent this

Mental health risks and comparison culture

Facebook often promotes idealized versions of life. This can lead to:

• Feelings of inadequacy
• Low self-esteem and body image issues
• Addiction to likes and external validation

Planned message encryption = less parental insigh

Meta plans to introduce end-to-end encryption in Messenger. Once implemented, neither parents nor moderators will be able to access messages—even in cases of abuse—making monitoring virtually impossible.

Advice for parents

Get familiar with privacy settings

Help your child configure their profile so that:

• Only friends can see their posts
• Strangers cannot message them without approval
• Location and personal info are not publicly visible

Talk about online “friends

On Facebook, it’s easy to add someone who says they’re “from school” or “in the same group.” Remind your child that doesn’t mean they truly know the person.

Monitor the groups your child joins

Facebook groups can be supportive communities—but also places that spread misinformation, violence, or harmful content. Take a look at the groups your child follows and what is being discussed there.

Discuss risks of Facebook Live and livestreaming

Facebook Live poses particular risks since everything is broadcast in real-time. Remind your child they don’t know who is watching, recording, or how the footage may be misused.

Additional support and reporting

If you’re concerned about your child’s online safety:

• Helpline: 0800 200 880
• Report illegal content: www.netpatrola.rs
• Suspected online abuse: Contact the police immediately
• Remove explicit photos: www.ncii.csi.org.rs
• More resources: www.cnzd.rs
• Free psychological and legal support: kontakt@cnzd.rs