Snapchat isn't just about fun filters and disappearing messages - it's also serious about its cybersecurity. In 2025, the platform has rolled out new tools to keep users safe, especially teenagers who are often targeted by online scams. The latest updates are focused on blocking unwanted contacts, improving privacy settings, and tracking sextortion attempts before they escalate.
With these changes, Snapchat aims to create a safer space where users can enjoy social interactions without worrying about cyber threats as much. While no platform can ever be 100% secure, these new measures can make it much harder for scammers to take advantage of unsuspecting users.
Effective parental controls
Parents have long struggled to monitor their children's social media activity, but Snapchat is making it a little easier. The Family Center tool now allows parents to see who their teens are chatting with, ensuring they aren't engaging with suspicious users. Snapchat has also strengthened its content filtering system to block inappropriate content from appearing in Stories and Spotlight feeds.
Moreover, parents now get better insights into how their kids use the app without invading their privacy. They can't read messages, but they can check their friend lists and interaction histories. With the right set of Snapchat spy apps (which are entirely legal for a parent to use on their kid's device), you can make monitoring of this social network a lot easier and more reliable (source: https://www.techopedia.com/spy/best-snapchat-spy-app).
The goal isn't to spy-it's to ensure that teenagers aren't unknowingly putting themselves at risk and that they're not putting their privacy at risk. Snapchat is giving parents useful tools without turning the platform into a digital babysitter. These updates help parents feel more confident that their kids are using Snapchat responsibly while still allowing teens to enjoy their online space.
Better blocking tools for persistent trolls
Blocking someone on Snapchat used to be a temporary solution. Annoying users could simply create a new account and try again, making harassment an ongoing problem. However, Snapchat has upgraded its blocking system to stop this from happening.
Now, when a user is blocked, any new accounts created on the same device are automatically blocked, too. That means you can no longer dodge the system by creating endless new profiles just to harass someone.
Snapchat is tightening its restrictions on how users find each other in the first place. People who don't have mutual friends with a teen won't even show up in their search results or Quick Add suggestions. Also, the app now prevents random users from bombarding teenagers with friend requests, reducing the chances of strangers forcing their way into someone's contact list. These small but powerful changes mean that when you block someone, they stay blocked - exactly as you intended.
With X (formerly Twitter) no longer allowing you to block users, this enhanced Snapchat blocking feature seems like a nice change of pace.
More control over location sharing
Snapchat's Snap Map is a fun feature, but it can also be risky if users don't pay attention to who can see their location. To help with this, Snapchat has added regular reminders encouraging users to review their location settings. That way, you won't accidentally be sharing your real-time whereabouts with more people than intended.
Snapchat is also simplifying the way location-sharing settings work. Instead of digging through menus to tweak privacy options, users can now manage everything in one place. Moreover, Ghost Mode (where your location is hidden from everyone) is easier to turn on and customize. While location sharing can be useful, it's important to keep control over who sees where you are.
With these updates, Snapchat is ensuring that users don't unknowingly give away more information than they should.
Stronger protections against sextortion scams
Teenagers are one of the biggest targets for online scammers, and Snapchat is taking steps to make sure they're not easy prey. The new system flags messages from suspicious accounts, especially those that have been blocked or reported by others.
Also, Snapchat is now blocking friend requests from users in regions known for online scams, reducing one of the main ways bad actors gain access to potential victims. Moreover, teens will receive a pop-up warning if they receive a message from someone outside their usual circle, giving them a chance to think twice before engaging.
But the fight against sextortion isn't just about preventing bad actors from reaching users - it's also about awareness. Snapchat is introducing in-app reminders about online safety, teaching teens what to watch out for. Scammers often pose as friendly peers, trying to build trust before demanding explicit images or personal information.
With these new features, Snapchat is putting roadblocks in their way, making it harder for them to operate. Education and prevention go hand in hand, and these updates make it clear that Snapchat isn't leaving users to figure things out on their own.
Conclusion
Ultimately, no app is completely risk-free, but Snapchat ensures security isn't just an afterthought. With stronger protection against scammers, better blocking tools, and smarter parental controls, users can stay safe more than ever. Also, the added focus on location privacy helps prevent unnecessary exposure. Security isn't just about avoiding threats - it's about creating an online space where people can enjoy socializing without constant worry.