What Happened: Instagram is introducing new privacy and safety features for users under 18, making accounts private by default and adding parental supervision tools to protect minors online.
What you need to know: Instagram has introduced major privacy changes to protect users under 18, aiming to address concerns about online safety for young people. Starting soon, accounts for minors will automatically be private, meaning only approved followers can see their posts. Instagram will also limit notifications for users under 18 between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. to encourage better sleep. Additionally, new supervision tools will allow parents to see the accounts their teens recently messaged. These updates are part of Instagram’s “Teen Accounts” initiative, responding to growing pressure over child safety on social media.
What more: Instagram head Adam Mosseri emphasized that these changes were made with parents’ concerns in mind, focusing on protecting minors from inappropriate content and interactions. The app is also working on technology to identify underage users who lie about their age. While these updates aim to improve online experiences for teens, experts noted that young users who misrepresent their age might still bypass the new settings.
Also: Some children’s advocates believe Instagram’s actions are overdue, prompted by increasing public and legislative pressure. Though the changes might impact Instagram’s teen user base and business, Mosseri acknowledged the need to prioritize safety over growth. The new features are set to roll out in the coming weeks across the U.S., Canada, Australia, and Britain