HARARE – Global messaging platform WhatsApp has announced the introduction of special accounts for pre-teen users, a move aimed at improving child safety on the popular messaging service.
The new accounts, designed for children under the age of 13, will include enhanced parental controls and built-in limits to help parents manage how their children use the app.
Under the new system, a parent or guardian will need to approve the creation of the account and link it to their own device. This allows parents to oversee privacy settings, manage contacts, and set usage limits to ensure safer online communication.
The feature has been introduced by Meta Platforms, the parent company of WhatsApp, as part of broader efforts to strengthen child protection on digital platforms.
Among the safety measures included are restrictions that prevent unknown users from easily contacting children, tighter controls on group chats, and reminders that encourage young users to take breaks from the app. Parents will also be able to set quiet hours, limiting notifications during school time or late at night.
All the same, Meta Platforms said the parental control system is designed to balance safety and privacy. While parents will receive activity summaries, they will not be able to read the content of their children’s messages.
The development comes amid increasing global concerns about children’s exposure to cyberbullying, online predators, and excessive screen time on social media platforms.
In Zimbabwe, where WhatsApp remains the most widely used messaging platform for communication, business, and community engagement, the new safety features are expected to help families better manage young users’ online interactions.
The company said the pre-teen accounts will be rolled out gradually across different regions in the coming months as part of its continued push to create safer digital spaces for younger users.
