Google Announces New Teen Account Protections
(Google Adds “Safety Features” for Teen Accounts)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Google unveiled new safety features for teenagers using its services. The changes target users under 18. Google wants to create a safer online space for young people. The updates affect several Google products directly.
One key change involves Search settings. SafeSearch will now be turned on automatically for users under 18. This setting helps filter out explicit results. Teens can still adjust this setting themselves. Google believes the default activation provides a better starting point.
Privacy settings are getting stricter for young users. Google will automatically prevent teens’ profiles from appearing in certain results. This aims to shield minors from unwanted contact. Location History is also disabled by default for teen accounts. This stops Google from saving where a teen has been. Turning it on requires manual action.
YouTube is also included in the updates. Google will block ad targeting for teens based on age, gender, or interests. This stops ads for sensitive categories like weight loss appearing for minors. The goal is to limit exposure to potentially harmful advertising.
Google stated these changes respond to growing concerns. Parents and regulators worry about kids’ online safety. Google aims to build tools suitable for younger users. These tools give teens more control over their online experience.
The company consulted child safety experts during development. Google wants its platforms to be safer for everyone. These features build on existing parental controls. Parents can still use Family Link to oversee their teen’s account. The new defaults add another layer of protection automatically.
(Google Adds “Safety Features” for Teen Accounts)
These settings will roll out globally in the coming weeks. Google hopes this makes its services more teen-friendly. The company encourages families to discuss online safety together. Google plans to keep improving safety features over time. The focus remains on protecting young users across Google products.