Minimum age according to Terms of Use: 13+
What is Threads?
Threads is an app developed by Meta (owner of Instagram and Facebook) as a competitor to X (formerly Twitter). It’s designed for sharing short text posts, photos, and links. Threads works as a microblog and connects automatically to a user’s Instagram account. It aims to be a more positive and less toxic space, especially for younger users.
What parents should watch out for:
Appeal to younger users
Due to its simple design, Instagram-like aesthetics, and seamless switching between apps, Threads is especially attractive to Gen Z and younger millennials. Its algorithm recommends content from users your child doesn’t follow, increasing chances of exposure to strangers or inappropriate material.
Lack of parental controls
Unlike Instagram, Threads currently lacks robust parental supervision tools. Parents cannot monitor messages or content directly.
Addiction and screen time
Endless scrolling and the pursuit of likes and reactions can lead to digital addiction, poor focus, and negative mental health impacts.
Privacy concerns
Threads collects extensive user data—including location, device info, contact lists, and more. This has raised concerns among digital privacy advocates. Parents should review settings to limit personal information sharing.
Advice for parents:
- Talk about digital boundaries and what should never be shared online (location,school, home address, family issues, plans)
- Set privacy settings together: control who can comment, follow, and disable profile suggestions
- Set time limits and encourage offline activities
- Model healthy social media behavior and communication
- Maintain open conversations about social media experiences and emotional impact
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
