Latest Stories

The screen-time rules worth keeping when school stops

When school stops, most screen-time rules can loosen. Two shouldn't. What to hold for the phone kids, the gamers, and what you can let go.

The UN has set out ten steps for protecting children online

The UN human rights office has published ten steps it wants governments to adopt to keep children safer online. Here is what the guidance actually says.

Instagram can now read your teen’s private messages

Meta removed end-to-end encryption from Instagram direct messages on 8 May 2026.

After Molly Russell, Pinterest did the work most platforms still won’t

Pinterest scores 2.5 on the Wired Parents Scorecard, not as bad as its reputation.

How to read an official warning about your child’s screen time, without taking it on trust

A US health advisory on children's screens made global headlines this week. Here is what is actually inside it, and the one habit that helps parents read the next one.

What changed on Snap, Meta and Roblox this week — and what TikTok and YouTube refused to change

Snap, Meta and Roblox agreed to specific child safety changes. TikTok and YouTube refused. The settings parents should check on each platform.

We’ve rebuilt the Wired Parents Scorecard

New social media age recommendations for 20 platforms, from Minecraft to Kick. Plus a new bullying category and four platforms parents have been asking about.

Roblox just raised the age for its most popular games to 16

From 19 May, Roblox restricts Social Hangouts, free-form roleplay games and sensitive content to ID-verified 16+ users.

Instagram is showing parents the algorithm — but not the content

From 12 May, parents using Instagram supervision can see the topics shaping their teen's algorithm. A real change, and a real limit.

GLOBAL NEWS

How to switch on the nudity blur built into your child’s phone

Both iPhone and Android can blur explicit images before a child sees them, on the device, for free. How to check it's on and switch it on if it isn't.

The UK is following Australia’s under-16 social media ban — and going further

The UK has announced an Australia-style ban on under-16s using TikTok, Instagram and more from 2027, enforced through age checks.

How to switch on the nudity blur built into your child’s phone

Both iPhone and Android can blur explicit images before a child sees them, on the device, for free. How to check it's on and switch it on if it isn't.