Suryaa International Desk: Snapchat has initiated measures to enhance online safety for minors in Britain by disabling its 'Find Friends' feature by default for users under the age of 18. According to the British media regulator Ofcom, this decision is intended to mitigate risks such as online grooming and contact from strangers.
These changes were implemented by Snapchat in accordance with the UK's Online Safety Act. The new policy prevents users under 18 from receiving friend requests or suggestions from individuals they are not already connected with. Ofcom reports that 32 percent of children aged 8 to 12 in Britain use Snapchat. The regulator has urged technology companies to take strict measures to protect minors from online fraud and sexual harassment.
Ofcom stated that technology companies failing to prioritize child safety may face strict action, including fines of up to 10 percent of their global revenue for non-compliance. Snapchat has announced plans to implement effective age verification tests for users under 18 by the end of this year. UK government officials and social protection experts have welcomed these safety measures amid rising concerns over cybercrime on social media platforms.
