ISTANBUL, SEPT 18 – Instagram is now introducing a new ‘Teen Account’ that automatically protects teenage users with various security features, according to its parent company Meta Platforms, in a statement yesterday.
Agency Anatolia reports that this move will limit the individuals who can contact teenagers, determine the content viewed and ensure the quality of time they spend on the platform.
This move also aims to give parents peace of mind that their children are using the platform safely.
“We understand parents’ need to feel confident that their children can use social media to interact with friends and explore their interests without worrying about safety or inappropriate content.
“Therefore, we are introducing Teen Accounts, designed to support parents and assure that their children are protected with the right security features,” according to the statement.
In addition, teens will also have access to a new feature that allows them to choose the topics they want to see.
“Teenagers under the age of 16 need to get parental permission to make any changes to this built-in protection,” according to Meta.
Teen users will be placed in the strictest message settings where only individuals they follow or are already connected with can send them messages.
These security settings also limit sensitive content such as argument videos or content promoting cosmetic procedures, from appearing in sections Explore and Reels accessible to teenagers.
“We will also automatically activate the strictest version of our ‘Hidden Words’ anti-bullying feature, which will filter offensive words and phrases from teens’ DM comments and requests,” according to the statement.
The new measures include a ‘time limit reminder’ where teenagers will receive a notification to leave the app after 60 minutes of daily use.
Additionally, Sleep Mode will automatically activate between 10pm and 7am, which will turn off all notifications and send automatic replies to messages received during those hours.
“As today’s parents are faced with the challenges and benefits of using the internet and digital media by teenagers, we applaud Meta’s efforts to launch this Instagram Teen Account,” said President of the National Parent and Teacher Association (PTA), Yvonne Johnson in the statement.
“With certain privacy features turned on automatically, Meta shows its commitment to helping parents ensure their children have a safer and age-appropriate experience on this platform,” he said. – Named