After much criticism for its abuse and harassment policies, Snapchat has now banned anonymous messaging features from third-party apps that integrate with its platform.
The change comes after Snapchat filed a lawsuit last year to hold two Snapchat-linked apps responsible for abusing its platform in connection with the death of a teenager who was bullied.
Here is what Snap said in its new policy via a blog post:
Anonymous messaging is being banned
First, we will ban apps that facilitate anonymous messaging to integrate with our platform. During our review, we determined that even with security measures in place, anonymous apps pose a risk of abuse that is unlikely to be mitigated to an acceptable level.
While we know that most Snapchatters use these anonymous integrations in fun, engaging, and completely appropriate ways, we believe that some users may engage in malicious behavior – such as intimidation or harassment – if they have anonymous cover. Under our new policy, we will not allow third party apps to use a Snapchat integration to facilitate communication between users without a registered and visible username and identity.
Looking for apps for age-getting friends 18+
Our review was comprehensive and examines the privacy and security of integrated apps outside of anonymous messaging. Today we’re also announcing that friend-searching apps will not be allowed unless they are age-restricted and restricted to Snapchatters over the age of 18. This change will better protect younger users and make them more compatible with the use of Snapchat – communication between close friends who already know each other.
As a platform that works with a wide range of developers, we want to create an ecosystem that helps apps protect user safety, privacy and well-being, while unlocking product innovation for developers and helping them grow their business.
We believe we can do both and will continue to evaluate our policies regularly, monitor app compliance and work with developers to better protect the well-being of our community.