Instagram has launched new safety features aimed at protecting young users from online risks. One notable change is the introduction of “Teen Accounts,” designed specifically for users aged 13-17, with the aim of reducing the mental health impacts associated with social media.
What is the reason for the update?
Instagram has been criticised by mental health experts and authorities for exacerbating problems such as anxiety, cyberbullying, addiction, eating disorders and low self-esteem in teenagers. Advocacy groups and governments around the world, including those in the United States and Australia, have been pushing for stricter protections, with some countries imposing age restrictions on social media platforms.
In response, Instagram’s parent company Meta has rolled out this update. Teen accounts will now be private by default, restrict communication with unknown people, and control exposure to sensitive content.
What are the main features of “Teen Accounts”?
1. Private account
Accounts of users between the ages of 13 and 17 will automatically be set to private, limiting interactions with strangers.
2. Messaging controls
Direct messages (DMs) will have additional protections, ensuring that teens can only receive messages from people they follow, thereby reducing unwanted contact.
3. Content filtering
Teenagers will be protected from potentially harmful or inappropriate material.
4. Limited interaction with adults
There will be restrictions on adult accounts that do not follow the teen’s profile, which will help prevent unsolicited messages or risky interactions.
5. Time management
Teens will be given guidance on how to manage their time on the platform by setting app usage limits, promoting more conscious social media habits.
Parental monitoring function
Meta is also launching a “parental monitoring feature,” which will give parents more oversight over their teens’ Instagram usage.
1. Parents can control daily time limits for their children to spend in front of a screen.
2. Parents can see the topics their teen is interacting with and monitor the interactions.
3. The app can be locked during specific times to better manage screen time.
How is age verification performed?
Instagram has introduced new methods to verify the age of users:
1. By partnering with Yoti, Instagram will use video selfies for age verification.
2. Teens can also ask mutual friends to confirm their age when necessary.
First published: September 18, 2024 | 17:03 IS
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