Meta Introduces Stricter Content Controls for Teenagers on Instagram
In a bid to strengthen protections for young users, Meta has announced that teenagers on Instagram will be limited to viewing PG-13-rated content by default. This new setting, which cannot be changed without parental permission, aims to shield teens from content that may be deemed inappropriate, including scenes of sex, drugs, and dangerous stunts. The update is the most significant since the introduction of teen-specific accounts last year.
Under the new policy, Instagram will hide or not recommend posts containing strong language, risky stunts, and other content that may encourage potentially dangerous behavior, such as posts showing marijuana paraphernalia. The company is also introducing an additional setting that allows parents to configure even stricter controls for their children. This “Limited Content” restriction will block more content and prevent teens from viewing, leaving, or receiving comments on posts.
These changes come as Meta faces criticism over its handling of content that may be harmful to children. Despite previous efforts to strengthen protections, a recent report found that teen accounts were being recommended age-inappropriate content, including explicit sexual descriptions and self-harm related posts. The new restrictions aim to address these concerns and provide a safer environment for young users.
As part of the update, Instagram will also restrict teens from following accounts that regularly share age-inappropriate content or have names and bios that contain material unsuitable for teens. These accounts will also be prevented from following teens, sending them private messages, or commenting on their posts. Furthermore, Meta will extend its existing measures to block sensitive search terms, including those related to suicide, eating disorders, alcohol, and gore, even if they are misspelled.
The new controls will also apply to chats and AI experiences aimed at teens, ensuring that AI responses are age-appropriate and in line with PG-13-rated content. With these changes, Meta aims to provide a more secure and controlled environment for young users, while also giving parents more tools to monitor and manage their children’s online activities. The update is part of the company’s ongoing efforts to address concerns around online safety and provide a more responsible and family-friendly social media platform.