In a significant move to enhance user safety, a popular online gaming platform has unveiled a series of new protective measures aimed specifically at users aged 13 to 18. These updates include the introduction of a feature called “Trusted Connections,” which allows teenagers to interact more freely with individuals they know, alongside advanced age estimation technology, enhanced privacy settings, and valuable insights for parents.
In recent years, concerns have been raised regarding the safety of younger users on online platforms. Reports of minors encountering inappropriate content and being contacted by predatory adults have prompted scrutiny from various authorities. This latest initiative appears to be a proactive response to such concerns, aiming to reassure both lawmakers and parents about the platform’s commitment to user safety.
The newly announced features come as part of a broader strategy to improve the online experience for teenagers, following previous updates that restricted messaging capabilities for users under 13. This evolution reflects the platform’s ongoing efforts to create a safer environment for its younger audience.
To facilitate better communication, the platform is rebranding its “Friends” feature to “Connections” and launching the “Trusted Connections” option. This allows teens to engage in chat and voice conversations with individuals they trust, without the constraints of filters. According to a senior product manager, this new freedom is designed to reduce the likelihood of teens seeking interactions outside the platform, where they may face greater risks.
Conversations between users identified as Trusted Connections will be monitored for potential risks, such as grooming. Additionally, parents will have the ability to see who their teens are connected with through this feature, providing an extra layer of oversight.
To access Trusted Connections, users must verify their age using the platform’s innovative age estimation technology, which involves submitting a selfie video. Only those who receive an age estimation of 13 or older will be granted access. If the system cannot confidently verify a user’s age, they will remain unverified, but alternative ID verification options are available for those who do not pass the age estimation.
Teens aged 13 to 17 with confirmed ages can add each other as Trusted Connections. However, unfiltered communication between users aged 18 and older and teens will be restricted unless a real-life relationship is verified through a QR code.
The platform is also implementing age estimation technology across its services to ensure users can access features and content that are appropriate for their age group.
In terms of privacy enhancements, teenagers now have the option to control who can see their online status. They can choose to share this information with just their Connections, followers, no one, or everyone on the platform. Additionally, they can set specific times to silence push notifications from the platform.
Furthermore, parents are being equipped with a comprehensive set of tools to monitor their child’s activity on the platform. They can view their teen’s connections, track the amount of time spent on the platform, and receive notifications for specific transactions made by their child. This initiative aims to provide parents with quick and accessible insights into their child’s online presence, fitting seamlessly into their busy lifestyles.
As online safety continues to be a pressing concern, these new measures represent a significant step towards creating a more secure environment for teenagers, allowing them to enjoy their online experiences while minimizing potential risks.