441
Although WhatsApp has a minimum age of 16 for use according to its terms of use, there are many children who use the messenger service.
From what age WhatsApp is suitable for children
According to WhatsApp’s terms of use, users of the service should be at least 16 years old.
- Thus, children under 16 cannot legally use WhatsApp unless their parents have explicitly consented to their use.
- If you want to allow your child to use it before the age of 16, you should think carefully about what age is appropriate.
- Comparable apps are recommended no earlier than age 13. Children at this age are usually better able to understand and appreciate the consequences of your actions.
- The point at which this necessary maturity is reached may vary from child to child.
- For example, younger children run the risk of not understanding and using privacy settings correctly. In addition, younger ones may also accidentally send or receive inappropriate messages or content without realizing the consequences.
Dangers to children and what parents can do
As a parent, you should keep an eye on your children’s behavior online to protect them from potential dangers.
- Children can be victims of bullying or harassment, especially when they use group chats or public WhatsApp groups. As parents, you should therefore talk to your children about cyberbullying and encourage them to report incidents.
- Inappropriate content that depicts violence or pornography is easily accessible on WhatsApp. Make sure your kids don’t have inappropriate groups or contacts on WhatsApp and adjust privacy settings accordingly.
- WhatsApp collects a large amount of data about its users, including location data and communication content. Educate your kids about privacy and teach them to be careful with personal information.
- In addition, parents can configure privacy settings in WhatsApp to better protect children’s privacy.
- Also keep in mind the risk of addiction that comes with constant WhatsApp use. Parents should therefore keep an eye on their children’s usage time and make sure they have enough time for other activities.
