WhatsApp Launches Parent-Managed Accounts for Pre-Teens
Summary
Hide ▲
Show ▼
WhatsApp has introduced parent-managed accounts for pre-teens, allowing parents to control who can contact their children and which groups they can join. These accounts are restricted to messaging and calling, with end-to-end encryption ensuring privacy. Parents must set up the account by verifying the child's phone number and linking devices via a QR code. Parents can manage privacy settings and activity alerts with a 6-digit PIN. The child can transition to a standard account upon turning 13.
Timeline
-
11.03.2026 22:06 1 articles · 23h ago
WhatsApp Introduces Parent-Managed Accounts for Pre-Teens
WhatsApp has rolled out parent-managed accounts for pre-teens, allowing parents to control who can contact their children and which groups they can join. These accounts are restricted to messaging and calling, with end-to-end encryption ensuring privacy. Parents must set up the account by verifying the child's phone number and linking devices via a QR code. Parents can manage privacy settings and activity alerts with a 6-digit PIN. The child can transition to a standard account upon turning 13.
Show sources
- WhatsApp introduces parent-managed accounts for pre-teens — www.bleepingcomputer.com — 11.03.2026 22:06
Information Snippets
-
Parent-managed accounts restrict access to messaging and calling only, excluding Meta AI, Channels, Status, and location sharing.
First reported: 11.03.2026 22:061 source, 1 articleShow sources
- WhatsApp introduces parent-managed accounts for pre-teens — www.bleepingcomputer.com — 11.03.2026 22:06
-
Parents must verify the child's phone number, confirm age, and scan a QR code to link accounts.
First reported: 11.03.2026 22:061 source, 1 articleShow sources
- WhatsApp introduces parent-managed accounts for pre-teens — www.bleepingcomputer.com — 11.03.2026 22:06
-
Parents can set a 6-digit PIN to manage message requests, privacy settings, and activity alerts.
First reported: 11.03.2026 22:061 source, 1 articleShow sources
- WhatsApp introduces parent-managed accounts for pre-teens — www.bleepingcomputer.com — 11.03.2026 22:06
-
By default, managed accounts can only message contacts saved on the child's device, and parents must add the account to groups.
First reported: 11.03.2026 22:061 source, 1 articleShow sources
- WhatsApp introduces parent-managed accounts for pre-teens — www.bleepingcomputer.com — 11.03.2026 22:06
-
Parents receive activity alerts for new chat requests, added contacts, and new group members.
First reported: 11.03.2026 22:061 source, 1 articleShow sources
- WhatsApp introduces parent-managed accounts for pre-teens — www.bleepingcomputer.com — 11.03.2026 22:06
-
Children can transition to a standard account at age 13, gaining full access to WhatsApp features.
First reported: 11.03.2026 22:061 source, 1 articleShow sources
- WhatsApp introduces parent-managed accounts for pre-teens — www.bleepingcomputer.com — 11.03.2026 22:06