Instagram is making significant changes to its platform to better protect teenagers, with new “teen accounts” aimed at children aged 13 to 15. These accounts will have strict privacy settings turned on by default, making posts private and requiring approval for new followers. Parents will have oversight of the account until the child turns 16, ensuring added controls and reassurance.
The move comes as social media companies face increasing pressure to make their platforms safer for young people, with concerns about harmful content proliferating online. The NSPCC welcomed the changes as a step in the right direction but emphasized the need for proactive measures to prevent harmful content from spreading in the first place.
Instagram’s parent company, Meta, describes the changes as a “new experience for teens, guided by parents,” and aims to provide peace of mind to parents that their teens are safe with the right protections in place. However, concerns have been raised about parents’ willingness to intervene and enforce these protections effectively.
The new system will rely on users being honest about their ages, with tools in place to verify age if necessary. Instagram will also use artificial intelligence to detect teens using adult accounts and move them back into teen accounts. The UK’s Online Safety Act requires online platforms to take action to keep children safe, with potential fines for non-compliance.
While the changes are seen as significant, enforcement will be key to their success. Social media analyst Matt Navarra highlighted the need for safeguards that cannot be easily bypassed by tech-savvy teens. The ultimate goal is to improve children’s digital wellbeing and give control back to parents in navigating the online world.
As the platform evolves to better protect teenagers, the focus remains on ensuring a safe and positive experience for young users. With the implementation of these new measures, Instagram aims to address concerns about harmful content and empower parents to take a more active role in their children’s online activities.
