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X (Twitter) & Threads: the parent’s guide

Both platforms are tough for under-16s. Here’s the lockdown settings and the recommendation.

App guide·Last reviewed 2026-04-22·1 min read·by Lexeprint Inc.

X (formerly Twitter) and Threads

X is now an adult platform with weakly enforced age gates; explicit content is widely available. Threads (Meta) is newer and more restrictive but improving slowly. For anyone under 16, these aren’t really safe.

Settings for X (under-18 account)

  • Protect your posts — on (makes account private).
  • Settings › Privacy & Safety › Content you see › Display media that may contain sensitive content — off.
  • Settings › Privacy & Safety › Audience and tagging › Photo tagging — “No one”.
  • Settings › Privacy & Safety › Mute and block › Quality filter — on.
  • DMs › Message requests from verified users only, or off entirely.
  • Location — off for tweets.
  • Personalized ads — off.
  • Two-step verification on (app-based).

Threads (via Instagram)

  • Threads accounts are tied to Instagram. If the Instagram account is Private + Teen Account, much of that carries over to Threads.
  • Direct replies from non-followers off.
  • Content filter level set to strictest.

Why these platforms are harder than Instagram / TikTok

  • The quote-retweet / reply mechanic amplifies targeted harassment faster than any feed platform.
  • Political and ideological content reaches teens in unfiltered form.
  • X’s “verified” marks are no longer a quality signal; scams use them freely.
  • Both platforms let strangers reply publicly to any post.

Recommendation

Below age 15-16, block both apps. Between 16 and 18, allow with all above settings and a conversation about what gets amplified on these platforms.