Snapchat has introduced new privacy restrictions for teenage users, rolling out private profiles for users aged 13 to 15 as part of expanded safety measures on the platform.
The update is designed to limit exposure to strangers and reduce pressure from public engagement metrics, while giving parents more oversight through built-in controls.
Under the new policy, Snapchat users between the ages of 13 and 15 will now be placed into separate private profiles.
These profiles will restrict how Stories and Spotlight posts are shared, allowing content only to be visible to mutual friends — specifically users who follow each other back.
The company says this step is aimed at reducing exposure to unknown users and improving online safety for minors.
Spotlight and story sharing restrictions
Snapchat has also changed how younger users interact with its Spotlight feature.
Previously, users in this age group were able to share Spotlight posts publicly. Under the new system, that access will be restricted, and posts will only be visible within approved connections.
The platform also removes engagement metrics that could create pressure around popularity or ranking for underage users.
Stronger safety controls for teen users
The update builds on existing safeguards already in place for teenagers on the platform.
Snapchat currently prevents strangers from sending friend requests or direct messages to teenage users.
If a teen attempts to chat with someone outside their network, the app displays a warning message to discourage interaction with unknown accounts.
The company also limits the type of content teens can view across the app.
Snapchat has expanded its Family Center tools, allowing parents to monitor how much time their children spend on different sections of the app, including Stories and Spotlight.
The feature is designed to give guardians more visibility into digital habits without directly accessing private conversations.
Rules for older teen users
Users aged 16 to 18 will continue to have broader access to Spotlight posting features, but their content will still be limited to friends, followers, and users with mutual connections.
This ensures a tiered safety approach based on age group while maintaining some creative flexibility for older teens.
Snapchat’s move follows similar actions taken by other major platforms, including Instagram, which has introduced teen-specific account settings in recent years.
Social media companies are increasingly under pressure to strengthen child safety controls and reduce exposure to harmful content and unwanted contact.
