TikTok and FORTH Team Up to Empower Greek Parents for Teen Digital Safety

In a significant step toward creating safer digital spaces for young users, TikTok has partnered with the Foundation for Research and Technology – Hellas (FORTH), supported by the Hellenic Internet Safety Centre – SaferInternet4Kids, to launch a new initiative aimed at empowering parents and guardians in Greece. The program focuses on equipping families with the tools and knowledge to foster responsible digital habits among teenagers, with a particular emphasis on safe TikTok usage.

Protecting Teens with Built-In Safety Features

TikTok already incorporates over 50 default security measures designed to protect teenage users. For example, only users aged 16 and older can access the platform’s instant messaging feature. Accounts of those under 18 are automatically limited to 60 minutes of screen time per day and restricted from receiving notifications after bedtime. Additionally, TikTok filters out content deemed inappropriate for younger audiences to ensure a safer experience.

The ‘Digital Waves – Family Anchors’ Initiative

Named Digital Waves – Family Anchors: Growing Up Safely in the Digital World, the initiative will be implemented during the 2025-2026 school year. Targeting parents and guardians of teenagers aged 13 and above, the program includes a series of online and in-person events. Participants will also receive a comprehensive guide developed exclusively for this effort, supported by insights from psychologists and digital experts.

Modern Parenting: From Supervision to Support

Experts emphasize that children and teens use digital platforms not just for entertainment, but as vital channels for social connection and self-expression. The challenge for parents is not to master every app but to build trust and open communication.

Digital parenting today means being present as a guide rather than a monitor. Research shows that teens who feel comfortable discussing their online experiences with parents are more secure and confident. Setting clear, fair boundaries—such as discussing screen time limits together—combined with active listening and genuine interest in a child’s digital world, lays the foundation for safe and positive online behavior.

Practical Tips for Safe Digital Use

To help parents navigate the digital landscape, the initiative recommends simple but effective safety measures:

• Regularly check and adjust app privacy settings.
• Disable location sharing.
• Use parental controls and filters.
• Familiarize yourself with each app’s terms of use.
• Prevent the sharing of personal information and disable in-app purchases.
• Set guidelines for photo sharing and monitor device use, especially for younger children.

For TikTok specifically, parents are encouraged to activate Family Pairing—a feature that links parent and child accounts to enable content controls and screen time limits. Other recommended steps include setting accounts to private, enabling content restrictions, discussing the types of content your teen uploads, teaching them how to block and report harmful interactions, and explaining how TikTok’s algorithm works.

A Collaborative Effort with National Support

The initiative has garnered support from high-level officials. Sofia Zacharaki, Greece’s Minister of Education, Religious Affairs & Sports, praised the program, stating, “In the digital world that our children are growing up in, the role of parents remains crucial and irreplaceable: to guide, protect, and be an example. Open communication, trust, and positive parenting are the strongest supports for a safe and creative relationship with technology.”

Dimitris Papastergiou, Minister of Digital Governance, emphasized the need for collective responsibility: “Protecting minors requires cooperation between the state, the EU, parents, society, and digital platforms. Tools like Kids Wallet and Family Pairing are key in enabling parents to set healthy limits for their children.”

Luana Lavecchia, TikTok’s Head of Public Policy for Greece and Italy, highlighted TikTok’s ongoing commitment to teen safety, saying, “Our partnership with FORTH reinforces our shared vision of empowering families with modern tools and knowledge. By working with Greek experts, we tailor our support to local needs and help families navigate the digital world confidently.”

Expert Guidance at the Helm

The scientific leadership of the initiative is provided by Professor Paraskevi Fragopoulou, Coordinator of the Hellenic Internet Safety Centre at FORTH. With decades of experience in digital security, Professor Fragopoulou stresses the importance of parental involvement. “Prevention and proper information start with the family,” she explains. “Our goal is to empower parents so they can confidently support their children in navigating the digital world safely and responsibly.”

As digital platforms become integral to young people’s lives, initiatives like Digital Waves – Family Anchors underscore the vital role parents play in shaping a safe, supportive online environment. By combining technological safeguards with empathy, open communication, and trust, families can help teenagers enjoy the benefits of digital life while minimizing risks.