13. By default, accounts of all users ages 13-15 are set to private, which restricts public video sharing and direct messaging. Accounts of users over the age of 16 are automatically set to public, allowing them to record and share videos of themselves and private message other users.

Direct messaging is allowed between users over the age of 16.

TikTok does not publicly share user location.

TikTok allows parents to “pair” their device with their child’s device in order to control many features of the app remotely. Apple and Android parental controls can also be used at the device level.

TikTok contains a huge variety of content, including things that some parents might find inappropriate

13. By default, accounts of all users ages 13-15 are set to private. Accounts of users over the age of 16 are automatically set to public, which means that anyone can view their posts or send them direct messages.

Instagram allows private messaging between users. It also allows disappearing messages that are visible for only a short time before being deleted. Location sharing: Instagram allows public location sharing.

Instagram allows public location sharing.

Instagram is introducing built-in parental controls. Apple and Android parental controls can also be used at the device level.

Instagram contains a wide variety of photo and video content, including things some parents might find inappropriate.

13

Snapchat is designed to allow users to send “Snaps”--photo, video, and chat messages–back and forth between one person or a group of users. Snaps disappear after a short time, and can be replayed only once. There is an option to save chat messages in the feed.

Snapchat allows public location sharing.

In August 2022, Snapchat implemented an in-app family center that allows parents to see which Snapchat friends have sent their children messages, photos or videos within the last week. Parents also have the option to report any suspicious or concerning accounts to Snapchat’s trust and safety teams.

Snapchat can be used innocently for kids to message their friends, but there are a number of potentially-dangerous uses that parents should keep in mind if their kids are using the app.

Users must be 13 years old to create an account. However, an account is not required to view YouTube content. Some videos are age-restricted based on explicit content and are not visible to any users under age 18 or anyone without an account.

YouTube does not allow direct messaging. Users with an account can post public comments on videos.

YouTube does not publicly share user location.

YouTube has built-in parental controls, including a Restricted Mode, that allows parents to control the type of content their child views.

YouTube has one of the largest libraries of video content on the internet. Some of it is safe for children, but some of it contains things that parents may find inappropriate.

Users must be 18 to create an account.

None

None

Offers a ‘kids profile’ option in settings. This disables all media that is rated for adults and only displays content suitable for children.

The ‘kids profile’ version offers an incredibly safe and accessible version of the app for children to use. Netflix requires a paid subscription.

13

Users can audio or video call each other, as well as text chat. There are also forum-like chat groups where users can communicate with each other.

Not available

None, though Apple and Android parental controls can be used at the device level.

Discord is as risky as you make it. Users have control over the groups they join and the individuals they message. It is common for gaming communities to use Discord to communicate.

13+

There is no private messaging on BeReal. Comments can only be posted by a user’s approved friends.

BeReal contains a “Maps” feature that allows users to share their location with friends.

None. Apple and Android parental controls can be used at the device level.

BeReal does not allow users to see others’ photos unless they have posted one themselves for the day. It also does not have followers or likes. Some experts have praised the app for those features, its focus on authenticity, and a format that encourages screen-time moderation instead of endless scrolling. As with any social media platform, some content may not be appropriate for users of all ages.

13+ with adult supervision or 18+

Users can type comments in a public chat room-style feed associated with each stream. Users can also send streamers monetary gifts and privately message one another.

No public location sharing.

There are some privacy setting options such as blocking “whispers” (direct messages) from other users and filtering chat to block crude or insulting words.

There is a wide variety of content available on Twitch. Pornographic content is against Twitch guidelines, but the nature of livestreaming means Twitch streams are unfiltered and may contain mature content.

13

Zepeto allows public, private, and group messaging. Users can also “live stream” via their avatar.

Zepeto does not publicly share user location.

Zepeto does not have built-in parental controls. Apple and Android parental controls can be used at the device level.

Zepeto caters to a younger audience and has more gameplay features than many other apps of its type. Avatars in Zepeto are created directly from personal images of the user, which can lead to privacy issues.

13+

Users can comment publicly on each other’s posts and may also encounter strangers on comment threads in public posts and groups. Direct messaging is also a prominent feature (See Facebook Messenger).

Location sharing on posts is enabled, but users may opt out by adjusting their settings.

There are no external parental controls built into the app. However, privacy settings can be adjusted to fit what users are comfortable sharing, and with whom they are comfortable sharing it.

Like many social apps, Facebook can be relatively safe or extremely dangerous depending on how it is used. Always ensure teens know how to block other users and understand the importance of privacy settings.

13

Fanfiction.net contains public forums where users can talk to each other about a variety of topics. It also allows for private messaging between users.

Fanfiction.net allows users to publicly display their location in their profile.

Fanfiction.net does not have built-in parental controls. Apple and Android parental controls can be used at the device level.

Some content on Fanfiction.net is safe for younger readers, but the app also contains mature content that is inappropriate for anyone under the age of 18. Built-in filters allow users to restrict certain types of content from their feed; however, filters rely on authors to rate the appropriateness of their own work.

13

Twitter allows users to privately message one another, including sending photo and video messages. It also allows disappearing messages, which are visible for a short time before being deleted.

Twitter allows users to publicly share their location.

Twitter does not have built-in parental controls. Apple and Android parental controls can be used at the device level.

While 13-year-olds can legally join twitter, it is rated 17+ and contains mature content, including pornographic material, that is inappropriate for children of any age.

13

Not available

Not available

Offers a ‘kids profile’ option in settings. This disables all media that is rated for adults and only displays content suitable for children.

The ‘kids profile’ version offers an incredibly safe and accessible version of the app for children to use. Disney+ requires a paid subscription.

13

Allows text chat, group chat, video call, and voice call. Users have the ability to send links, video, and gifs. Has a ‘secret message’ feature that allows messages to disappear.

Allows users to publicly share their location

Specific users can be blocked from sending messages. Apple or Android parental controls can be used at the device level.

A Facebook Messenger account is linked to a user’s Facebook account. Anyone can message your child if they can find their Facebook account. Messenger also has a feature that allows people to share money back and forth.

13

Wattpad allows public comments on original works as well as private messages between users.

Wattpad allows users to publicly display their location in their profile.

Wattpad does not have built-in parental controls. Apple and Android parental controls can be used at the device level.

Some content on Wattpad is safe for younger readers, but the app also contains mature content that is inappropriate for anyone under the age of 18. Built-in filters allow readers to restrict certain types of content from their feed; however, filters rely on authors to rate the appropriateness of their own work.

13

None available

Not available

Offers a ‘kids profile’ option in settings. This disables all media that is rated for adults and only displays content suitable for children.

The ‘kids profile’ version offers an incredibly safe and accessible version of the app for children to use.

13

None available

None available

Offers a ‘kids profile’ option in settings. This disables all media that is rated for adults and only displays content suitable for children.

The ‘kids profile’ version offers an incredibly safe and accessible version of the app for children to use. Hulu does not require a paid subscription; it has a free with ads level.

18

Not available

Not available

Offers a ‘kids profile’ option in settings. This disables all media that is rated for adults and only displays content suitable for children.

The ‘kids profile’ version offers an incredibly safe and accessible version of the app for children to use.

Users must be 18 to create an account.

Not available

Not available

Offers a ‘kids profile’ option in settings. This disables all media that is rated for adults and only displays content suitable for children.

The ‘kids profile’ version offers an incredibly safe and accessible version of the app for children to use.

18

Not available

Not available

Offers a ‘kids profile’ option in settings. This disables all media that is rated for adults and only displays content suitable for children.

The ‘kids profile’ version offers an incredibly safe and accessible version of the app for children to use.

13

WhatsApp allows video chat, one-on-one text chat, and group text chats.

WhatsApp offers a ‘Share Location’ feature, which allows users to share their location in a one-on-one chat and group chat.

Limited to blocking users from contacting the account. Apple or Android parental controls can be used at the device level.

Users of the app have the ability to set it so that only saved contacts have the ability to message them.

13

Not available

Not available

Offers a ‘kids profile’ option in settings. This disables all media that is rated for adults and only displays content suitable for children.

The ‘kids profile’ version offers an incredibly safe and accessible version of the app for children to use.

18

Not available

Not available

Offers a ‘kids profile’ option in settings. This disables all media that is rated for adults and only displays content suitable for children.

The ‘kids profile’ version offers an incredibly safe and accessible version of the app for children to use.

13, but it is designed for a more adult audience. An Access Pass allows users over the age of 18 to access adults-only content and requires third-party age verification.

IMVU allows public, private, and group messaging.

IMVU allows public location sharing.

IMVU does not have built-in parental controls. Apple and Android parental controls can be used at the device level.

Parents may find much of the content in IMVU inappropriate for teens. Customization of your avatar and environment is a huge focus of gameplay, so in-app purchases are heavily emphasized.

13

Not available

Not available

Offers a ‘kids profile’ option in settings. This disables all media that is rated for adults and only displays content suitable for children.

The ‘kids profile’ version offers an incredibly safe and accessible version of the app for children to use.

13

Not available

Not available

Offers a ‘kids profile’ option in settings. This disables all media that is rated for adults and only displays content suitable for children.

The ‘kids profile’ version offers an incredibly safe and accessible version of the app for children to use.

16

Not available

Not available

Offers a ‘kids profile’ option in settings. This disables all media that is rated for adults and only displays content suitable for children.

The ‘kids profile’ version offers an incredibly safe and accessible version of the app for children to use.

13

Not available

Not available

Offers a ‘kids profile’ option in settings. This disables all media that is rated for adults and only displays content suitable for children.

The ‘kids profile’ version offers an incredibly safe and accessible version of the app for children to use.

13

Not available

Not available

Offers a ‘kids profile’ option in settings. This disables all media that is rated for adults and only displays content suitable for children.

The ‘kids profile’ version offers an incredibly safe and accessible version of the app for children to use.

18

Not available

Not available

Offers a ‘kids profile’ option in settings. This disables all media that is rated for adults and only displays content suitable for children.

The ‘kids profile’ version offers an incredibly safe and accessible version of the app for children to use.

13

Allows group messages, SMS messaging, GIF, video, photo sharing, and Skype video chatting

GroupMe allows users to share location data with their groups

No internal parental filters or controls, but can be monitored by third-party software. Apple or Android parental controls can be used at the device level.

Like any type of group messaging, GroupMe is a potential setting for bullying. Phone numbers and email addresses are hidden from people who aren’t on users’ contacts list, but names and profile pictures are public. GroupMe also includes GIF, meme, and video search features via unfiltered internet access, so it is possible for kids to find explicit content.

16

Allows text and group chat. They can also send pictures, videos, stickers, and other files.

Allows users to share their locations with other users by using the ‘Send Current Location’ feature.

There are no built-in parental controls. Apple and Android parental controls can be used at the device level.

Telegram is designed for adults. The minimum age requirement in-app is 16, but the Apple App Store recommends 17. This app was not designed for children.

13

Tumblr allows users to post public comments and exchange private messages with other users. Users can adjust their own privacy settings to block their posts from view or turn off direct messaging from strangers.

Tumblr does not publicly share user location.

None, though Apple and Android parental controls can be used at the device level.

Tumblr made headlines in 2018 for blocking pornographic content from its platform. However, due to the wide variety of content, there may still be things that some parents find inappropriate.

13

Reddit allows private and group messaging. Users must accept any messages sent to them before they can be viewed.

Reddit does not publicly share users’ location.

None, though. Apple and Android parental controls can be used at the device level.

The scope of content on Reddit is enormous. Many subreddits are family-friendly; however, others contain adult content that is not appropriate for children. All Reddit users are anonymous, with only a username and no profile photo. This anonymity can make some users feel safer, but can also create an environment that allows for bad online behavior free from real-life consequences.

13, but the app is designed for a more adult audience.

Avakin Life allows public, private, and group messaging. According to the app’s website, “Avakin Life unites people from all over the world, and chatting with people you don’t know could potentially expose you to danger.”

Avakin Life does not publicly share user location.

Avakin Life does not have built-in parental controls. Apple and Android parental controls can be used at the device level.

There are many sexually-charged features of interactions between avatars in Avakin Life that parents may find inappropriate. Customization of your avatar and environment is a huge focus of gameplay, so in-app purchases are heavily emphasized.

13+

Users cannot opt out of the messaging feature. However, users cannot receive messages from anyone whose profile they don’t follow.

Location data can be shared with images.

In privacy settings, users can opt out of sharing location data with the photography or videos they post, but there are no external parental controls for this app.

VSCO doesn’t include likes or comments and emphasizes artistic imagery rather than traditional social media posts. Teenagers using VSCO can choose an anonymous username and opt out of location data sharing. However, users cannot make their profiles private at this time.

13+ or 17+

None.

No public location sharing.

In settings, users can turn on Restricted Mode, which filters out songs with explicit-rated content. However, there is no external parental lock on this feature.

Youtube Music contains music covering a wide range of genres and subjects, including content that some parents may find inappropriate. YouTube Music is restricted to 17+ on iTunes.

13+

Messaging is available through the Soundcloud website, allowing individuals to exchange messages with artists. Messaging can be dislabled by the user in the privacy settings. However, there is no external parental lock on this setting.

No public location sharing.

Songs in Soundcloud are marked by the artist if they contain explicit lyrics, but there is no option to automatically filter out explicit song recommendations.

The addition of chat messaging capability sets Soundcloud apart from other music apps. Like any app that allows messaging with strangers, this adds risk.

Users must be 13 years old to create an account. Children ages 13-17 may view publicly posted content, but in order to support a creator as a patron, or to set up a creator account, users must be 18 years old or older. Children can set up creator accounts before age 18 with parent or guardian permission.

Patreon allows users to post public comments or send messages to creators that they support financially.

No public location sharing.

None, though Apple or Android parental controls can be used at the device level.

Patreon is not intended for use by children. Younger teens can view content that is posted publicly by creators, but are restricted from becoming patrons until they are adults. Children will likely be better off interacting with content creators through other platforms.

13+

Pinterest allows private messaging between users.

No public location sharing.

None, though Apple and Android parental controls can be used at the device level.

Some visual content available on Pinterest may be considered inappropriate by parents. Pinterest attempts to restrict external linking to broken, inappropriate, or unsafe third-party websites; however, this is not 100% effective.

13

Amino allows private and group messaging.

Amino allows users to share their generalized location publicly.

Amino does not have built-in parental controls. Apple and Android parental controls can be used at the device level.

Amino users are identified only by an anonymous username. The wide variety of communities and content means that children may be exposed to things that some parents find inappropriate.