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WhatsApp sets minimum age requirement to 13 years

By Winnie Onyando February 19th, 2024 1 min read

WhatsApp, one of the world’s leading messaging platforms, has implemented a minimum age requirement for users.

As per the updated policy, individuals must be at least 13 years old, or the minimum age required by their country, to register for and use WhatsApp.

This age restriction is in line with WhatsApp’s commitment to user safety and compliance with regulations governing online services.

The company noted the significance of complying with this policy and cautions that creating an account with inaccurate details or on behalf of an underage individual constitutes a violation of its Terms of Service.

To ensure the safety and security of users, WhatsApp has provided a range of tools and features.

Users can control who can contact them, add them to group chats, and access their personal information.

Additionally, WhatsApp offers resources to educate teen users about privacy and safety on the platform.

Parents concerned about underage children using WhatsApp can take action by showing them how to delete their accounts.

Furthermore, WhatsApp allows users to report accounts belonging to underage individuals. To do so, individuals must provide proof of ownership of the WhatsApp number, proof of parental authority, and proof of the child’s date of birth.

Upon receiving a report, WhatsApp promptly disables the account if it’s reasonably verifiable that the account belongs to an underage child.

However, if the reported account cannot be verified as belonging to an underage user, WhatsApp may not be able to take action.