Free

Safer apps start with the right settings

Step-by-step guides to TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, WhatsApp, Discord, Facebook and X. Learn the risks, switch on the protections and know what to say when something goes wrong.
Platforms covered

One guide for each app

Start with the app your child uses most. Each guide works on its own.

  • TikTok logo

    TikTok

    The For You feed, Family Pairing and screen-time limits

    Parent toolFamily PairingUnder-16 restriction due
  • Instagram logo

    Instagram

    Teen Accounts, Restrict, Hidden Words and location

    Parent toolMeta Family CenterUnder-16 restriction due
  • Snapchat logo

    Snapchat

    Snap Map, My AI and Family Center

    Parent toolSnapchat Family CenterUnder-16 restriction due
  • WhatsApp logo

    WhatsApp

    Group chats, unknown callers and disappearing messages

    Parent toolParent-Managed Accounts (under 13s)Not in under-16 restriction
  • Discord logo

    Discord

    Servers, strangers and Family Center

    Parent toolDiscord Family CenterUnder-16 restriction due
  • Facebook logo

    Facebook

    Teen Accounts, Messenger, Groups and tagging

    Parent toolMeta Family CenterUnder-16 restriction due
  • X logo

    X

    Protected posts, Direct Messages and Parental Controls

    Parent toolX Parental ControlsUnder-16 restriction due

  • Inside every guide

    1. The main risks
    2. Built-in protections
    3. Parent tools
    4. Settings, step by step
    5. Quick safety check
    6. Conversation starters
What the guides cover

Seven questions, answered for every app

Written for parents and carers, not tech experts.

Can my child use this app yet?

The UK minimum age for each app, plus which apps the planned under-16 restriction covers.

Answered in: UK update

What's already switched on for teens?

The built-in protections each app gives teen accounts, and why the correct date of birth matters.

Answered in: Built-in protections

Where do I find each setting?

Exact menu paths for privacy, messages, location, content filters and screen time.

Answered in: Settings, step by step

How do I start the conversation?

Conversation starters and six practical things to do with your child for each app.

Answered in: Talk about it

What are the real risks?

The main risks on each platform, from strangers and scams to the feed itself.

Answered in: The main risks

Which parent tools exist, and what do they show?

Family Pairing, Family Center and Parental Controls: what you can see, and what you cannot.

Answered in: Parent tools

What do we do if something goes wrong?

Don't engage, save evidence, block and report, tell a trusted adult. Plus the difference between Block, Mute, Restrict and Report.

Answered in: If something feels wrong

Pick an app. Work through it together.

Sit down with your child, open the guide for the app they use most and check each setting on their phone.
  • Built by a CEOP Education Ambassador
  • Covers UK rules, including the planned under-16 restriction
  • Links straight to each app's official help pages
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