Parents face growing concerns about child online safety, screen time and digital wellbeing. Now, several major tech firms plan stronger action to protect children online after pressure from Ofcom demands These changes aim to reduce online grooming risks and improve safety features for younger users. Families increasingly want safer digital spaces, especially as children spend more time on social media and gaming platforms.
New anti-grooming measures arrive for child online safety
Snap, Meta and Roblox now plan tougher child protection measures. These changes include tighter contact settings, stronger chat controls and AI tools that spot suspicious behaviour. These updates should reduce the risk of harmful contact from online strangers.
Snap plans to stop adult strangers contacting children by default. The platform will also limit friendship suggestions involving unknown users. Meanwhile, Roblox will give parents greater control over direct chat settings for children under 16.
Meta also plans new protections for teens on Instagram. AI tools will identify potentially harmful conversations and trigger action where needed. The company also intends to hide teen connection lists automatically.
Concerns remain around content feeds
However, Ofcom raised serious concerns about social media recommendation feeds. Children often discover harmful material while scrolling through content feeds. Ofcom research found that many young users still encounter harmful content online.
TikTok and YouTube did not announce major new measures around recommendation feeds. Regulators now want stronger action and closer scrutiny. Ofcom also wants clearer laws to stop underage children accessing platforms designed for older users.
Parents continue to play an important role. Open conversations, parental controls and age settings can support children as they navigate digital spaces.
For more information visit Ofcom
