Snapchat tightens parental controls after addiction lawsuit settlement
Snapchat has expanded its parental controls with new tools to monitor teens’ screen time and contacts. The update builds on the Family Center hub launched in 2022, giving parents greater visibility into their children’s app activity.
This move follows a recent lawsuit settlement over claims that Snapchat’s algorithm contributes to addictive behaviour and mental health problems.
The latest features allow parents to track weekly news of app usage, including time spent and types of activity. They can also review new contacts added by their teens, seeing mutual friends and shared Snap communities.
Additional safeguards now include restrictions on AI interactions and certain content. Parents can also check their teen’s friends list and receive location alerts for added safety.
The changes come after Snapchat settled a lawsuit filed by a 19-year-old identified as KGM. The case, resolved on 21 January 2026 in Los Angeles County, accused the platform of designing features that encourage excessive use and harm mental well-being.
Snapchat’s updated tools aim to give parents clearer insights into their teens’ digital habits. The new controls follow legal pressure and ongoing concerns about social media’s impact on young users. The company has not announced further changes beyond these latest measures.
