New apps are introduced every day, and the new Instagram thread app is no exception. As a parent, it’s important to determine whether these new apps are safe for your children. Snapchat has gained a reputation for privacy issues, with concerns about data being misused. Now, Instagram has launched Threads, an app for Instagram that looks, sounds, and feels similar to Snapchat. However, there are key differences between the two that you should be aware of to help protect your children from potential risks.
Threads is a photo-sharing app designed for sharing photos with your Close Friends on Instagram. This means sharing images only with people you’ve marked as Close Friends on Instagram. However, in reality, it’s more of a messaging app that’s centered around photos and tied closely to Instagram. It’s Instagram’s answer to the issue of fake accounts, allowing users to share with actual close friends, similar to how Snapchat operates. Here are a few more details you should know about the Threads app:
When comparing the safety of the new Instagram Threads app to Snapchat, it’s important to look at the features and risks each platform presents. While neither is completely risk-free, there are some key differences that could make Threads feel safer for certain users, especially parents concerned about their kids’ online safety.
On Threads, your child’s friend list is private and won’t be shared with anyone else unless they choose to share it. This is a step up from Snapchat, where users can easily see each other’s friends, making it harder to track who your child is interacting with. With Threads, if your child doesn’t want someone to know who they’re connected to, they don’t have to worry about it.
Threads only allow messages between users who are on each other’s “Close Friends” list. This is a strong feature because it reduces the chances of receiving unwanted messages or spam. In contrast, Snapchat lets users message anyone, even if they’re not friends, which could lead to more unwanted interactions.
Around 59% of U.S. teens have experienced cyberbullying or harassment online, with 27% reporting being bullied through social media platforms specifically.
Both apps have location-sharing features, but Threads has an optional “Auto Status” feature, which shares a general idea of where your child is—like “At a cafe” or “At the park”—instead of their exact location. This is less precise than Snapchat’s location-sharing but still provides some insight into their whereabouts.
Snapchat offers more established tools for you, such as the ability to monitor who can send messages to your child and who can see their posts. As of now, Threads hasn’t rolled out the same level of parental control, which could make it harder to keep an eye on your child’s activity. If controlling your child’s app interactions is a priority, Snapchat might be the safer choice—at least for now.
Threads doesn’t have features like Snapstreaks, which are designed to encourage constant engagement and can make it harder for kids to disconnect from the app. This could make Threads less addictive than Snapchat, which might be a good thing if you’re concerned about your child spending too much time on social media.
The average American spends 4 hours a day on their phone, with younger demographics (18-34) spending over 5 hours daily on apps and social media.
If you’re concerned about your child’s safety on the Instagram ‘Threads’ app, using a parental control app like iKeyMonitor can help you monitor their activity and protect them from potential risks. Here’s how you can keep your kids safe with iKeyMonitor:
iKeyMonitor allows you to track messages your child sends and receives on the Threads app. You can view text conversations, ensuring they’re not engaging with inappropriate contacts or experiencing cyberbullying.
The iKeyMonitor app lets you set up alerts for suspicious activities, such as when your child connects with strangers, shares personal information, or engages in risky conversations. This helps you take action before things get out of hand.
Threads has location-based features like Auto Status, but iKeyMonitor can give you a better picture of where your child is, with precise tracking. You can even set up geofencing to receive notifications if your child enters or leaves certain areas, adding another layer of protection.
With iKeyMonitor, you can limit your child’s screen time on Threads, preventing excessive use and helping combat phone addiction. You can set usage limits, ensuring your child uses the app responsibly and doesn’t spend too much time on it.
iKeyMonitor lets you view all social media activity, including posts, likes, and interactions on Threads. This allows you to stay informed about what your child is sharing online and with whom, protecting them from inappropriate content and interactions.
The app lets you block inappropriate content or apps entirely. With iKeyMonitor, you can prevent your child from accessing harmful or explicit material on Threads, keeping their online experience safer.
While Instagram Threads offers privacy features like limiting who can follow or message, it’s still important to monitor activity. Consider using tools like iKeyMonitor to track and ensure your child’s online safety.
You can adjust privacy settings on Instagram Threads by managing your Close Friends list and controlling who can see your posts. You can also set message and follow request filters for added protection.
Yes, on Instagram Threads, you have control over who can follow you. People must send a follow request, which you can approve or deny, ensuring only trusted individuals see your content.
Consider using tools like iKeyMonitor to monitor your child’s activity on Instagram Threads. It helps you track messages, social media activity, and app usage, ensuring your child’s safety online.
In conclusion, Instagram’s Threads app provides a private space for sharing with close friends, but it still poses risks for kids. By adjusting privacy settings and using monitoring tools like iKeyMonitor, you can help ensure your child stays safe while using the app.