TikTok Safety Settings 2025

Purpose of TikTok Parental Controls

TikTok remains one of the most widely used social platforms among teens. Its fast-paced video-sharing format is engaging and creative. However, it also presents significant risks. In 2025, the app continues to evolve its parental control features to help families manage screen time, restrict inappropriate content, and protect user privacy more effectively.

The goal of these tools is to create a safer and more controlled experience for teenagers. New updates to Family Pairing, screen time management, and restricted content filtering make it easier for parents to supervise without taking away the enjoyment of the platform.

 

Why It Matters for Parents

Although TikTok carries a Parental Guidance (PG) rating, it still includes a wide variety of content that is unsuitable for younger audiences. Therefore, it is essential for parents to:

• Filter mature or harmful material
• Monitor and manage screen time
• Limit interactions through messages and comments
• Protect against data and identity exposure

Taking these steps helps ensure a safer digital experience for teens.

 

Why It Matters for Teens

Teens thrive when given room to explore within healthy boundaries. With TikTok’s parental settings, families can:

• Reduce exposure to inappropriate content
• Encourage responsible app usage
• Safeguard personal information
• Promote creative engagement in safer ways

These benefits support positive development while reinforcing digital responsibility.

 

 

Key Restrictions Available

• Screen Time Limits
• Content Filtering
• Chat and Message Restrictions
• Location and Data Privacy
• Discoverability Settings
• Disabling In-App Purchases

 

 

Getting Started with TikTok Parental Controls

1. Set Up Your Parental TikTok Account

To begin:

• Download and open the TikTok app
• Sign up using an email or a linked platform like Google or Facebook
• Use an inaccurate date of birth to protect identity in case of a breach
• Select your content preferences
• Tap the Me icon in the bottom right to access your profile

 

2. Access Account Settings

Now:

• Tap the three-dot icon in the top-right corner
• Navigate to Family Pairing under the Content & Activity section

 

3. Begin Account Linking

Next:

• Choose Parent when prompted
• A QR code will appear on your device

 

4. Link Your Teen’s Device

Using your teen’s phone:

• Open TikTok and go to their profile
• Tap the three dots > Family Pairing > Teen
• Scan the QR code and select Link Accounts

 

 

Activating Core Safety Features

1. Screen Time Management

To manage screen time:

• In Family Pairing, go to Screen Time Management
• Choose from 40, 60, 90, or 120 minutes
• A parent passcode is required to continue after the limit is reached

 

2. Restricted Mode

To filter mature content:

• Open Digital Wellbeing
• Tap Restricted Mode
• Enter and confirm a four-digit PIN

This helps limit content TikTok has flagged as potentially inappropriate.

 

 

Privacy and Safety Settings

Adjusting Discoverability

• Private Account: Limits who can follow your teen
• Suggest to Others: Toggle off to reduce profile visibility

 

Managing Communication

• Direct Messages: Restrict to Friends, Mutual Followers, or No One
• Video Comments: Set to Friends, Mutual Followers, or No One
• Liked Videos Visibility: Limit to Everyone or Only Your Teen

Settings can be overridden by teens unless controlled through Family Pairing.

 

Preventing In-App Spending

TikTok allows in-app purchases such as coins and gifts. To prevent spending:

• Open Settings
• Navigate to Digital Wellbeing
• Disable in-app purchases via your device’s parental controls

Keep in mind: 10,000 coins can equal roughly €100.

 

 

 

Reporting and Blocking Users

To protect your teen from harassment:

• Visit the offending user’s profile
• Tap the three-dot menu
• Choose Block or Report as needed

 

 

Exploring the TikTok Safety Centre

To find additional guidance:

• Open Settings > Support > Safety Centre
• Explore topics including:
  • Parent and Caregiver Guides
  • Community Guidelines
  • Security and Privacy Tools

 

 

Final Thoughts

In 2025, TikTok continues to lead in video-sharing for teens. However, its open nature requires parents to be proactive. By enabling Family Pairing, limiting screen time, and managing privacy features, families can guide their teens toward safer social media use.

At Children of the Digital Age, we believe these settings are essential—not optional. Used together, they form the foundation of a healthier digital life for your child.

 

 

Partner with Children of the Digital Age for Enhanced Online Safety

 

At Children of the Digital Age, we’re deeply committed to supporting parents as they navigate the ever-evolving landscape of digital parenting. We understand that ensuring your child’s online safety and digital well-being is a top priority. 

 

For broader educational resources, engaging workshops, or personalized advice, don’t hesitate to contact Children of the Digital Age. We’re here to offer expert guidance, ensuring your children enjoy the digital world safely and responsibly. Your child’s digital well-being and online safety remain our utmost priority.

 

 

© 2025 Children of the Digital Age. All rights reserved. | Last Updated: July 2025