Minimum age according to Terms of Use: 13+
What is Snapchat?
Snapchat is a popular messaging app, especially among teenagers. It is unique because photos, videos, and text messages sent between users disappear shortly after being viewed. Users can also share “Stories” lasting 24 hours, apply various filters and effects, and enable sharing of their current location with friends via the Snap Map feature.
Thanks to its creative and dynamic format, Snapchat has become a part of everyday life for many children and young people. However, along with the fun, there are certain risks involved.
What parents should watch out for:
Access to inappropriate content
The “Discover” section of the app contains content created by media and influencers, often featuring topics, images, or videos unsuitable for younger users. Although Snapchat attempts to filter content according to age, these filters are not always reliable.
Disappearing messages
Snapchat allows for messages to “disappear,” meaning parents have no insight into who their child is communicating with and about what. This feature might encourage risky communication, as it creates a false sense of security that “nothing is recorded.”
Strangers contacting your child
Through options like “Quick Add” and Snap codes, strangers can easily access your child’s profile. If privacy settings are not configured properly, there’s a risk of contact from complete strangers.
Predators and manipulation of children
The disappearing message feature, the ability to delete message histories, and location sharing can make it easier for predators to establish unnoticed contact and manipulate children. This is particularly concerning for younger children and adolescents.
Cyberbullying
Since messages and pictures quickly disappear, your child can be exposed to insults, mockery, or pressure without any evidence to report. Additionally, there is a risk of sharing recordings or photographs without consent.
Live location sharing
Snap Map displays users’ locations in real-time. If this option is not turned off or limited to trusted contacts only, there is a risk that unknown persons may learn your child’s whereabouts.
Advice for parents
Talk to your child about what they share, whom they communicate with, and why maintaining privacy is important. Configure messaging settings so only selected friends can send messages. Enable “Ghost Mode” to keep your child’s location invisible to others. Regularly review privacy settings and update them according to your child’s age and habits. Encourage your child not to accept friend requests from people they do not know personally. Download and read the Snapchat Parent Guide and enable the option “Safety Snapshot” to receive notifications about safe use of the app.
Additional support and reporting
If you are concerned about your child’s online safety:
- Helpline: 0800 200 880
- Report illegal content: www.netpatrola.rs
- Suspicion of online abuse: Contact the police immediately
- Removal of explicit photos: www.ncii.csi.org.rs
- More useful resources available at: www.cnzd.rs
- Write to us for free psychological and legal support: kontakt@cnzd.rs
Useful links:
