WhatsApp has introduced a new feature that allows children below 13 years of age to create an account. This feature is called a parent-managed account.
With this option, parents can link their child’s WhatsApp account to their own device. This helps parents monitor their child’s conversations and activities.
This step has started a debate because many countries are trying to restrict social media use for children under 16, while WhatsApp is offering a way for younger children to join the platform.
To understand the advantages, risks, and possible effects on children’s minds, ABP News spoke with psychologists and IT experts.
Risks Remain Even With Parental Controls
According to Prabir Jana, IT Manager at Macure Hospital, parental controls can reduce children’s exposure to harmful content, but they cannot remove all risks.
Technology is constantly evolving, and features like encrypted chats and disappearing messages can make it harder to track harmful activity.
He says that parents should regularly talk to their children about online dangers so they understand how to stay safe.
Encryption Makes Monitoring Difficult
Many platforms, including WhatsApp, use end-to-end encryption. This means that chat content cannot easily be viewed or monitored by others.
Because of this, it becomes difficult to know who children are talking to and what they are discussing.
Children are also more vulnerable to online scams because they tend to trust people easily. They may not realize that genuine apps never ask users to share verification codes.
Such scams are common on platforms like WhatsApp, Snapchat, and Discord. Experts say children should be clearly taught never to share any code or OTP with anyone.
How Scammers Target Children
Prabir Jana explained that scammers often approach children using fake profiles. They may first praise the child in public groups or chats and then start private conversations.
After gaining trust and forming a friendly relationship, they may ask for photos, videos, or personal information.
Some scammers also try to trick children by offering rewards in exchange for OTPs or by pretending to be a friend or influencer.
Ways to Protect Children Online
Experts recommend several steps to reduce risks:
Use tools like Apple Family Sharing or Google Family Link, which allow parents to approve apps, set screen-time limits, and filter content.
Create a parent-managed WhatsApp account for the child to control incoming messages and calls.
Enable teen-parent modes on apps such as Snapchat and Instagram and disable features like location sharing and disappearing messages.
Use strong passwords on devices and enable screen-time monitoring.
Impact of Messaging Apps on Children
Children today start using smartphones and messaging apps at a very young age. According to Arpita Kohli, psychologist and counselor at PSRI Hospital, platforms like WhatsApp can affect a child’s social and emotional development.
She explains that excessive use of messaging apps can reduce face-to-face interactions, which are important for learning emotions, communication skills,
and building relationships. Because of this, parental guidance is very important.
Kohli says WhatsApp’s parent-managed account can help children learn safe and responsible online behavior and reduce interaction with strangers.
However, if screen time is not limited, children may become too dependent on digital communication.
Advice for Parents
Kohli advises parents to focus on open communication rather than strict monitoring. Parents should explain online safety rules, set clear limits on screen time, and tell children who they can trust online.
It is also important to explain to children why monitoring is necessary, so they understand it is for their safety.
Do Parental Controls Reduce Online Risks?
Experts believe parental controls can reduce the chances of cyberbullying and online harassment. Safety settings on apps like WhatsApp help create a more secure digital environment.
However, parents should still remain alert. If a child suddenly starts hiding their phone, shows changes in mood, sleep, or behavior after using social media, it could be a warning sign of online harassment.
In such cases, parents should talk to their children calmly and understand their concerns.
