iMessage Safety Guide
Safety considerations for Apple's iMessage, including group chats, photo sharing, and parental oversight.
Official age
0+
We recommend
10+
Developer
Apple
Risks
3
Overview
iMessage is Apple's built-in messaging service. Because it comes pre-installed on every Apple device, many parents don't think of it as an app that needs safety attention. However, it supports group chats, photo/video sharing, and contact with anyone who has the child's phone number.
How children use it
Children use iMessage for texting friends and family, sharing photos, and participating in group chats. It's often the default messaging app on iPhones given to children.
Main risks
Recommended privacy settings
Filter Unknown Senders
Location: Settings > Messages > Filter Unknown Senders
Set to: On
Separates messages from people not in your contacts into a separate list.
Share Name and Photo
Location: Settings > Messages > Share Name and Photo
Set to: Contacts Only
Controls who can see your child's name and profile photo.
Communication Safety
Location: Settings > Screen Time > Communication Safety
Set to: On
Warns children before viewing or sending sensitive photos in Messages.
Parent actions
Enable Communication Safety in Screen Time
Time: 2 minutes
Review group chat memberships regularly
Time: 5 minutes
Discuss photo sharing risks
Time: 10 minutes