TikTok Changes Direct Message Settings for Under-16s
TikTok has updated its default direct messaging settings for accounts registered by users under 16.
Published: 2026-03-10
What Changed
TikTok has changed the default direct messaging setting for accounts belonging to users under 16. Previously, DMs were restricted to 'Friends only' by default, but users could change this. The new update removes the option for under-16 accounts to change this setting, making the 'Friends only' restriction permanent. Additionally, message filtering has been strengthened to detect and block messages containing inappropriate content or requests for personal information.
What to Review
- •Confirm that your child's TikTok account has the correct date of birth — the protections only apply if the account is registered as under 16.
- •Review your child's friends list to ensure they only have connections with people they actually know.
- •Check that the 'Suggest your account to others' setting is disabled.
Parent Actions
- 1Open TikTok and go to Settings > Privacy > Direct Messages to verify the restriction is active on your child's account.
- 2Talk to your child about why these restrictions exist and why having the correct age on their account matters.
- 3If your child has a second account registered with a different age, discuss this and consider removing it.
Full app guide
View the complete TikTok safety guide
This is practical educational content to support families. For case-specific concerns about a child's safety, contact the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000 or your local safeguarding team.
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Last reviewed: 2026-03-15