On Tuesday, Snapchat unveiled an expansion of its safety features aimed at enhancing the protection of its younger user base on the widely used photo and video messaging platform. Among the updates, users will experience improved blocking capabilities, streamlined location sharing, and stricter guidelines for friend requests directed at teenagers.
Enhancements to Blocking Features
Snapchat has reported that its blocking functionality has been upgraded to offer users greater protection against repeated harassment. When a user blocks another on the platform, any new friend requests from additional accounts created on the same device will also be automatically blocked. This update reflects a similar feature already present on competing platforms like Instagram.
Tighter Restrictions on Friend Requests and Easy Location Sharing
The platform now restricts the ability to send friend requests to users aged 13 to 17 unless there are mutual friends involved. Additionally, users who log in from areas commonly linked to scamming will be unable to extend friend requests to these younger individuals. Snapchat plans to launch a localized version of this functionality in India shortly.
Furthermore, younger users can now customize their location-sharing settings on Snap Map with increased ease. Snapchat will also provide periodic reminders for users to reevaluate the list of those who can view their geographical location.
Advanced In-App Warnings for User Safety
To better safeguard teenagers from potential scammers and suspicious accounts, Snapchat has enhanced its in-app warning system. This new functionality alerts users to messages from individuals located in other regions, as well as from users who have been previously blocked or reported.
According to Snapchat, these features will be systematically rolled out throughout the platform, reinforcing its commitment to user safety. The initiative allows teenagers to navigate the platform with greater security, potentially reducing exposure to inappropriate content, unwanted contact from older users, and online bullying.
