Social media law expert Emma Sadleir has issued an urgent warning to parents across South Africa to monitor their children’s WhatsApp channels, following a sharp increase in harmful and illegal content being distributed via the platform, particularly in Gauteng.
Sadleir, founder of The Digital Law Company, said that an “awful thread of communication” is spreading through WhatsApp Channels – a relatively new feature that allows users to broadcast messages to unlimited followers – with children being directly targeted.
“The type of content we’re seeing includes child sexual abuse material, defamation, crimen injuria, and the unauthorised sharing of personal details, including social media handles,” Sadleir said.
While the disturbing trend has been noted across the country, she flagged Johannesburg as a particular hotspot for this illicit digital activity.
No limits, no filters
Unlike traditional WhatsApp groups, WhatsApp channels can host unlimited followers, making it harder to control who receives content – and who’s behind it.
Sadleir revealed that children are being added or directed to channels containing explicit and criminal material, often without the knowledge of their parents or guardians.
Call to action: Report and investigate
The Digital Law Company is now actively working with legal professionals in preparation for court action aimed at identifying and holding the culprits accountable.
Sadleir urged parents to take immediate action:
- Check your child’s WhatsApp Channels by going to the ‘Updates’ tab (bottom left corner on most devices).
- Report any illegal or harmful content through WhatsApp’s reporting function.
- Talk to children about the risks of unknown or unsolicited channel invites.
“The only way we can bring these criminals to justice and put pressure on Meta [WhatsApp’s parent company] to act, is if people report this content,” she said.
Wake-up call for digital vigilance
This alarming development underscores a broader issue facing South African families: the growing dangers of unsupervised screen time and digital communication platforms.
Recent studies have already linked excessive screen time to emotional and behavioural issues in children – but this latest warning adds an urgent criminal safety dimension to the concern.
Sadleir’s message to parents is clear: “Be proactive. Be present. Be vigilant.”
At what age should children be allowed their own cellphones?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1
Subscribe to The South African website’s newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
