WhatsApp launches parent-controlled accounts for under-13s as research reveals 4 in 5 kids lie about their age online.

WhatsApp will allow under-13s to use parent-managed accounts, addressing age-related access issues reported by Australian regulators.

WhatsApp announced recently that it will open to under-13s for the first time, launching parent-controlled accounts as research reveals four in five children under 13 are already bypassing age restrictions on social media.

The messaging service, owned by Meta, said the new accounts were requested by parents who wanted their children on the platform safely. But Australian regulators estimate roughly 1.3 million eight to twelve year olds used 13-plus services in 2024 by entering false birth dates, despite a national under-16 ban.

The accounts will roll out over the coming months. Parents will sign children up and link their phones using a QR code, with all key controls locked behind a six-digit PIN on the parent’s device.

In the UK, MPs rejected an Australia-style under-16s social media ban on 9 March by 307 votes to 173. The government has launched a consultation asking parents, children and adults where they stand on age restrictions, with results expected to shape the next steps on children’s online safety.