Social Media use by underage children is a growing problem. Social networking sites such as Instagram and Facebook are popular with young people, even those who are of primary age.
Which social media services are age restricted?
WhatsApp have just announced a change to their terms and conditions for users based in Europe. Users will now need to be 16 to use WhatsApp.
Nearly all other social media services require users to be at least 13 years of age to access and use their services. This includes Facebook, Snapchat, Twitter, Instagram, Musical.ly and Skype (please see picture below for age guide).
Whilst there is no age restriction for watching videos on YouTube, users need to be 13 or older to have their own YouTube account (enabling them to subscribe to other channels, like videos, post comments, share their own content and flag inappropriate content).
Useful links:
https://www.saferinternet.org.uk/blog/age-restrictions-social-media-services
https://www.internetmatters.org/advice/social-media/
https://www.childnet.com/parents-and-carers/hot-topics/social-networking