Instagram Introduces New Teen Accounts with Enhanced Privacy Protections

Instagram has rolled out mandatory Teen Accounts for users under 18 years old. These new accounts prioritize privacy and safety by providing a range of protective features. Teen Accounts are designed to address concerns about the potential negative impact of excessive social media use on teen mental health.

• New and existing users under the age of 18 will be automatically enrolled in Teen Accounts.
• Teen Accounts include features such as parental supervision, overnight notification restrictions, and limits on who can contact teens on the platform.
• These changes come after warnings from U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy regarding the potential risks of social media for children.

Privacy Features of Instagram Teen Accounts

Instagram's Teen Accounts feature a set of built-in privacy protections aimed at safeguarding teens on the platform.

• Teen Accounts are private by default, requiring explicit permission for new followers to see their content.
• Users under 16 years old require parental permission to switch to a public account.
• Instagram is expanding its efforts to verify the age of teen users, requiring them to verify their age if they attempt to create an account with an adult birthday.

Parental Involvement in Instagram Teen Accounts

Teen Accounts allow parents to play an active role in managing their children's Instagram experience. This includes features designed to provide parental oversight and control.

• Parents can access information about the topics their teens choose to see more of on Instagram.
• Parents can set limits on the amount of time their teens spend on Instagram.
• Parents can control who their teens can interact with on the platform.

Impact of Instagram Teen Accounts on Teen Mental Health

Instagram's new Teen Accounts aim to mitigate the potential negative effects of social media use on teen mental health. The company believes that the privacy and safety features implemented will create a safer and more controlled online environment for teenagers.

• Some experts applaud these changes, viewing them as a positive step towards protecting teens from online harm.
• Others remain skeptical, arguing that robust age verification measures are crucial to prevent teens from circumventing the new restrictions.
• There is a concern that the restrictions may limit teen expression and subject them to parental control, potentially hindering their personal growth.

Expert Opinions on Instagram Teen Accounts

Experts hold mixed opinions on the effectiveness and potential impact of Instagram's new Teen Accounts.

• Jonathan Haidt, a social psychologist, expresses cautious optimism, recognizing the limitations but commending the move as a good start.
• Paul Barrett, a professor of law, emphasizes the need for better age verification to ensure the effectiveness of the new restrictions.
• Eric Goldman, a professor of law specializing in content moderation, raises concerns about the potential for over-regulation and the impact on teen self-expression and exploration.

Meta's Response to Criticisms

Meta has responded to criticisms by highlighting its commitment to user privacy and safety, emphasizing its consultation with parents, teens, and experts during the development of Teen Accounts.

• Meta emphasizes the balance between user experience and parental involvement, allowing parents to control certain settings for teens under 16.
• Meta aims to create an environment where teens can connect with friends, explore, and discover while ensuring appropriate protections.