The Safe Messaging for Kids Act of 2025 aims to protect minors (anyone under 17) from online harms by restricting how social media platforms handle messaging with young users. The bill prohibits social media companies from offering "disappearing message" features to minors and requires them to provide parents with tools to control and monitor their child's direct messaging contacts. For children under 13, direct messaging will be disabled by default unless parents explicitly consent to enable it. App stores must also warn parents when their child attempts to download an app with direct messaging features. The Federal Trade Commission and state attorneys general will enforce the law, treating violations as unfair or deceptive business practices. Social media platforms have 180 days to comply with most provisions, with up to 18 months for full implementation, though the law explicitly protects encryption and does not require companies to weaken security measures.
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