Instagram Launches Teen Accounts to Enhance Child Safety in Social Media
New Teen Accounts Addressing Social Media Safety
Instagram's latest move to enhance child safety comes with the introduction of teen accounts. This feature includes parental control options, which provide a way for parents to monitor their children's messaging without reading the messages themselves. The platform will also use artificial intelligence to identify users who may lie about their age, consequently transitioning them to teen accounts.
Rising Momentum for Legislation on Online Child Safety
The evolution of these teen accounts is fueled by increasing calls for child safety laws aimed at protecting minors on social media. The Kids Online Safety Act has gained traction among policymakers, urging platforms to prevent potential harm to children.
- Teen accounts require parental consent for under 16s
- Increased parental oversight on direct messaging
- AI tools to flag and adjust accounts based on age
Addressing Concerns about Parental Surveillance
Despite the positive intentions behind teen accounts, concerns emerge related to increased parental surveillance affecting teenagers, especially those from LGBTQ+ communities. Experts call for a balanced approach between privacy and necessary safety measures.
Conclusion: Path Forward for Instagram's Teen Accounts
Instagram is testing these teen accounts initially in markets like the U.S., U.K., Australia, and Canada. These settings will automatically apply to new users and existing users within the next 60 days. By implementing these features, Instagram aims to navigate the challenging landscape of social media safety.
This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.