Snapchat Simplifies Location Sharing, Improves Blocking Feature to Protect Younger Users

Snapchat announced on Tuesday that it was expanding its security features on the popular photo and video messaging platform in an attempt to protect the platform's youngest users. Users will be able to use the blocking feature more effectively, while location sharing has been simplified. Meanwhile, Snapchat says it will prevent strangers from friending teens if they don't have friends in common. In-app warnings displayed within the app will also warn younger users of the risks of responding to suspicious users.

Snapchat improves blocking functionality

According to details shared by Snapchat, the messaging app's blocking functionality has been expanded to protect users from being repeatedly harassed. If a user blocks someone on Snapchat, the app will automatically block new friend requests from other accounts created on the same device. Rival Instagram allows users to automatically block additional accounts created by a user.

Stricter Snapchat friend request policy, simplified location sharing

Snapchat users will no longer be able to send friend requests to users between the ages of 13 and 17, unless they have mutual friends. Similarly, users who access the app in “locations often associated with scam activity” will not be able to send requests to users. According to the company, a localized version of this feature will be introduced in India soon.

Location sharing on Snapchat has also been simplified, allowing younger users to control which friends can see their location on the Snap Map feature. The app will also show users periodic reminders to review a list of people they've shared their location with, according to the company.

Improved in-app warnings on Snapchat

In order to protect teenagers from suspicious users and scammers, Snapchat says its in-app warning system is now smarter and can warn users about messages from users in another region. A warning will also be shown to people who receive messages from users who have been blocked or reported.

Snapchat says the new features announced Tuesday will roll out across the service and are aimed at keeping users safe on the platform. The service allows teenagers to use the platform, and these new features could help the platform reduce the risk of inappropriate content or contact from older users, cyberbullies and scammers.