With iOS 26, Apple is bringing upgrades like typing indicators, Apple Cash requests and transfers, polls and more to group messages. On the Android side, Google just started rolling out Android 16 and Google Messages is finally getting some long-requested RCS group chat features – like the ability to name your group chats and even give them custom icons so they stand out.
Clearly, group chats matter. And the numbers prove it: the average social media user is part of 83 group chats. Teens? Even more – for them, it is where most of the real conversations happen. That is exactly why Verizon is sounding the alarm, especially for parents. According to the carrier, where there are teens, there’s drama.
Group chats can easily go from fun to messy – from oversharing to bullying – and most of the time, it happens without adults noticing. So Verizon teamed up with mental health experts to offer a few tips on how to help kids (and really, anyone) navigate these spaces more safely.
These chats are virtual hangouts. And parents need to be aware that problems can crop up in an instant, without them knowing.
– Erin Pash, M.A., founder of Ellie Mental Health, June 2025
One thing to remind your kid is that messages don’t really disappear. Even if a group chat app says they expire or can be deleted, screenshots are a thing – and once something is out there, it’s out there. Whether it’s a photo, a password, or a random comment, you can’t always take it back.
It’s also good to help them recognize when things are starting to go sideways. Jokes can cross the line, people can gang up or private info gets dropped. It helps to talk to your kid about recognizing those moments. Sharing your own online slip-ups can help start that conversation and even open the door to role-playing responses.
What matters most is making sure your kid knows they can come to you when something feels off. Uncomfortable moments are bound to happen, but having a safe person to talk to makes a big difference.
And there are red flags to look out for: flinching when a notification comes in, hiding their screen when someone walks by, suddenly distancing themselves from friends, late-night messaging, or mood swings tied to their phone. Those signs could mean a group chat is becoming toxic.
And last but not least, Verizon also says it’s better to focus on building skills instead of just monitoring screens. That means teaching kids how to handle online drama, spot fake info or scams, and navigate confusing stuff – especially now that AI is in the mix. Helping them build digital confidence goes a lot further than just watching over their shoulder.
And even if this all feels like common sense to you, think about who in your life might not know it – whether it’s another parent, a friend or even an older relative. Teens might be the most active in group chats, but let’s be real – older folks can get caught up in online messes, too. Everyone’s still figuring out how to stay safe and smart in these digital spaces.
