eSAFETY GUIDE
WeChat logo

WeChat

13+
Minimum age to create an account according to WeChat
13+ Minimum age to create an account according to WeChat

If under 13 you need permission from a parent or guardian.

What is WeChat?

WeChat is a Chinese social media service that is used worldwide. It combines social media posting (moments), online messaging, voice chat, video calling and payment services in a single platform. It is accessed via mobile app, a web browser or PC application. Once you have set up a profile, you add contacts by searching for their phone number or using their unique WeChat ID. You can also search for people nearby — one of many location-based features that let you interact with other members in your vicinity.

WeChat lets you send voice messages within chat. This functionality is useful when communicating in languages that don't use a Roman alphabet keyboard. If you have a bank account registered on WeChat you can exchange funds with other members. Australian bank accounts cannot be registered, but some Australian businesses do accept WeChat payments.

Website: wechat.com

Apps: Android app, Apple iOS app

How do people use WeChat?

Learn more about the benefits and risks associated with how people use social media like WeChat.

WeChat is used for: content sharing, encrypted, gaming, in-app purchasing, location sharing, messaging/online chat, online relationships, photo/video sharing, screen capture, voice chat and video calling.

How can you report online abuse, ask for content to be removed or block someone?

These links are provided by WeChat:

How can you protect your personal information?

These links are provided by WeChat:

Key safety links

These links are provided by WeChat:

Last updated: 04/06/2024

The eSafety Guide helps you find out how to protect your personal information and report harmful content on common social media, games, apps and sites. Entries are for information only and are not reviews or endorsements by eSafety. Before choosing to use any online service or platform it’s best to:

  • do your own research to understand the risks and benefits
  • check the age rating and requirements
  • consider privacy
  • check the permissions and other settings
  • check the in-app reporting options.

If you are a parent or carer who is deciding whether a child should be allowed to use an online service or platform, you can also:

  • consider your child's readiness for the types of content and experiences they might encounter
  • help them understand what to do if they need help
  • provide ongoing support and monitoring, for example through regular check-ins with your child
  • agree to some rules about use of each service or platform.

To find out more, you can read the App checklist for parents, as well as information about parental controls in social media, games and apps and mental wellbeing resources for families.