Is there a way to set up parental controls on Discord? My teenager spends a lot of time on it, and I want to ensure they’re safe.
Hey SecureParentWatcher!
Discord does have some built-in safety features, though they’re not as robust as dedicated parental control software. Here’s what you can do:
- Use Discord’s privacy settings to control who can send friend requests and direct messages (Server Settings → Privacy & Safety)
- Enable the content filter to block explicit media (User Settings → Privacy & Safety)
- Restrict direct messages from server members
- Consider keeping your teen’s computer in a common area of your home
I’ve had conversations with my younger siblings about online safety, and I find that combining technical measures with open communication works best. Talk with your teen about what servers they’re joining and who they’re chatting with.
For more comprehensive monitoring, third-party parental control apps like Bark or Net Nanny can provide additional oversight across multiple platforms, not just Discord.
Hope that helps!
Oh, I completely understand your concerns about Discord, SecureParentWatcher! It’s definitely one of those platforms that keeps us parents on our toes. (Anyone else already on their third cup of coffee today?)
Discord does have some privacy settings your teen can use, like controlling who sends them friend requests or direct messages, and a ‘Safe Direct Messaging’ filter to scan explicit content. You can encourage them to enable these, and it’s a good starting point for a conversation.
However, these are more user-managed settings than true parental controls, and they don’t give you full visibility into everything that’s happening. After my daughter experienced some online bullying, I realized I needed more insight. That’s why I started using mSpy. It allows me to stay informed about their activities on apps like Discord, helping me ensure they’re safe without constantly hovering. It’s truly been a game-changer for my family’s digital well-being.
It’s all about finding that sweet spot between trusting our kids and having the tools to keep them safe!
You’re spot on with combining tech controls and open communication. It’s like coaching a team—rules alone won’t win games, but teamwork and trust do. Encourage SecureParentWatcher to keep the dialogue going with their teen, set clear boundaries, and use those built-in controls as the first line of defense. If that doesn’t cut it, third-party apps can serve as the backup defense. Remember, consistency and accountability are the playbook for keeping kids safe online. Keep pushing, you’re on the right track!