Minimum age according to Terms of Use: 13+
What is WhatsApp?
WhatsApp is one of the most widely used messaging apps, owned by Meta. It allows users to send text, voice, and video messages, make calls, and share photos, videos, and documents—all over the internet. It can also be used on a computer via WhatsApp Web.
Thanks to its simplicity and widespread use, WhatsApp has become part of daily communication for both adults and children. However, some of its advanced features may pose challenges for parental supervision.
What parents should watch out for:
Disappearing messages
This feature automatically deletes messages (including media files) after a certain period, usually seven days. While it may seem like a privacy safeguard, recipients can still take screenshots, copy text, or download content before it disappears. Therefore, this function should not create a false sense of security.
“View Once” media
WhatsApp allows users to send photos and videos that can be viewed only once before they are automatically deleted. This feature can be misused to send inappropriate images, and children may feel uncomfortable seeking help if there’s no evidence left behind.
Locked chats and secret codes
Users can lock individual conversations with a password, fingerprint, or facial recognition. These chats become invisible in the main chat list. While useful for privacy, this function makes it harder for parents to monitor potentially risky communication.
Live location sharing
WhatsApp allows users to share their real-time location with contacts. While useful for parental tracking, it poses a risk if shared with people the child doesn’t know personally.
Group adding without consent
The “Add All” feature lets group admins add multiple users at once—including children. There have been cases where children were added to groups containing explicit content, hate speech, or even messages promoting self-harm.
Advice for parents
Discuss privacy and trust
Explain to your child that “disappearing messages” do not mean that what’s sent truly vanishes. Teach them never to share photos they wouldn’t want an adult to see.
Check privacy settings
Enable settings that allow only contacts to add your child to groups and limit visibility of their profile, photos, and status.
Encourage open communication
Your child should know they can always come to you if they receive a message or photo that makes them uncomfortable. No judgment—only trust and support.
Learn about security options
- How to enable or disable disappearing messages
- How to report a contact or inappropriate status
- How to recognize and protect against scams
- How to block suspicious links
- How chat locking works
All these tips are available on WhatsApp’s official safety page.
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
Useful links:
