Snapchat has started disabling its friend-finding feature by default for users under 18 in the UK, following pressure from media regulator Ofcom. The move aims to make it harder for children to connect with strangers and reduce the risk of online grooming.
The feature, called Find Friends, recommends accounts that users may know based on factors such as location, existing connections and activity on the platform. With the new settings, UK users under 18 will no longer automatically appear in other people's friend suggestions or receive recommendations through the feature.
Snapchat has also committed to introducing stronger age-verification measures to ensure that these protections apply to the intended age groups. Ofcom said the company expects effective age checks for under-18 users to be in place by the end of 2026.
The regulator welcomed the change, describing it as an important step towards improving online safety. However, it said it would monitor the rollout throughout November to ensure the promised protections are implemented properly. Ofcom's research found that 32% of British children aged eight to 12 use Snapchat, despite the platform's minimum age requirement of 13.
The risks have also been highlighted by child protection organisations. An analysis of police data by the NSPCC in 2025 found that Snapchat accounted for 40% of recorded offences involving sexual communication with a child where the platform was identified.
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Ofcom has repeatedly urged technology companies to strengthen safeguards against online grooming and unwanted contact from adults. The latest change follows commitments Snap made to Ofcom in May 2026. The regulator has warned that platforms failing to meet their online safety responsibilities could face financial penalties of up to 10% of qualifying global revenue.