Snapchat Simplifies Location Sharing, Improves Blocking Feature to Protect Younger Users

Snapchat, the popular photo and video messaging platform, recently unveiled a range of improved safety settings aimed at safeguarding its younger user base. These updates focus on empowering users to better control their experience on the platform, with enhancements made to the blocking feature and simplified location sharing. Additionally, Snapchat is implementing stricter guidelines to curtail friend requests from strangers. This was reported by SSPDaily.

One of the key improvements centers around Snapchat's blocking functionality, which has received an expansion to provide users with added protection against persistent harassment. Now, when a user blocks someone, Snapchat will automatically prevent new friend requests from other accounts created on the same device. This offers users a more comprehensive blocking feature, unlike rival platform Instagram, which only allows for blocking additional accounts by a specific user.

Snapchat has also implemented a more stringent policy for friend requests, particularly targeting users between the ages of 13 and 17. Unless users have mutual friends, they will be unable to send friend requests to individuals within this age bracket. Additionally, users accessing the app from regions known for scamming activity will have restricted capabilities when it comes to sending requests. The company plans to roll out a localized version of this feature in India soon, tailoring it to the specific needs of the region.

Furthermore, Snapchat has simplified its location sharing feature, particularly benefiting younger users. These users now have more control over who can view their location through the Snap Map feature. Regular reminders are also implemented to prompt users to review the list of individuals with whom they have shared their location.

To better protect teenagers from potentially suspicious users and scammers, Snapchat has made notable improvements to its in-app warning system. The system is now more refined, alerting users about messages originating from users outside their region and issuing warnings for messages from blocked or reported users.

Snapchat's comprehensive efforts to enhance safety settings and protect its young user base are being rolled out across the platform. These new features aim to minimize the risks of inappropriate content, as well as unwarranted contact from older users, online bullies, and scammers. With teenagers being active users of the platform, Snapchat's proactive approach to safety is commendable and underscores its commitment to ensuring user security and well-being.