Instagram says it's safeguarding teens by limiting them to PG-13 content
Share this @internewscast.com

Meta announced on Tuesday that teenagers using Instagram will be limited to viewing PG-13 content by default, and they cannot modify these settings without parental consent.

This policy means that users on teen-specific accounts will only see photos and videos akin to those in a PG-13 film — excluding content involving sex, drugs, or dangerous activities.

“The update includes hiding or not recommending posts with strong language, certain risky stunts, and other content that could encourage potentially harmful behaviors, such as posts showing marijuana paraphernalia,” Meta stated in a blog post on Tuesday, highlighting it as the most significant update since the introduction of teen accounts last year.

The company is also adding an even stricter setting that parents can set up for their children.

These updates follow ongoing criticism directed at the social media conglomerate concerning its effects on young users. Meta had previously committed to barring inappropriate content, such as posts about self-harm, eating disorders, or suicide, from reaching teen users.

However, this approach is not foolproof. Recent studies found that teen accounts set up by researchers were exposed to age-inappropriate sexual content, which included “graphic sexual descriptions, the use of cartoons to illustrate demeaning sexual acts, and snippets of nudity.”

Moreover, the report indicated that Instagram also suggested a “range of self-harm, self-injury, and body image content” to these teen accounts, which “could reasonably lead to negative impacts on young users, including those facing poor mental health, or experiencing self-harm, suicidal thoughts, or behaviors.”

Meta says the new restrictions go further than its previous safeguards. Teens will no longer be able to follow accounts that regularly share “age-inappropriate content” or if their name or bio contains something that isn’t appropriate for teens, such as a link to an OnlyFans account. If teens already follow these accounts, they’ll no longer be able to see or interact with their content, send them messages, or see their comments under anyone’s posts, the company said. The accounts also won’t be able to follow teens, send them private messages or comment on their posts.

Meta said it already blocks certain search terms related to sensitive topics such as suicide and eating disorders, but the latest update will expand this to a broader range of terms, such as “alcohol” or “gore” — even if they are misspelled.

The PG-13 update will also apply artificial intelligence chats and experiences targeted to teens, Meta said, “meaning AIs should not give age-inappropriate responses that would feel out of place in a PG-13 movie.”

For parents who want an even stricter setting for their kids, Meta is also launching a “limited content” restriction that will block more content and remove teens’ ability to see, leave, or receive comments under posts.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like
Calls for justice at Harlem funeral of boy, 2, whose dad is accused of beating him to death

Heartfelt Pleas for Justice Echo at Harlem Funeral for 2-Year-Old Boy, Allegedly Killed by Father

At just 32 months old, Maliek Morrison’s life was tragically cut short,…
Alleged Tren de Aragua criminal gang members charged in ATM robberies across New England

Tren de Aragua: New England’s ATM Heists Unraveled as Alleged Gang Members Face Charges

Two individuals, believed to be part of the gang Tren De Aragua…
Several treated due to mysterious smell in Glynn County; no threat to public safety, officials say

Mysterious Odor Incident in Glynn County: Officials Confirm No Public Safety Threat

A group of 11 individuals from Altama Elementary, encompassing both students and…
LAPD officer hit with felony charges after allegedly skydiving while collecting full disability benefits

LAPD Officer Faces Felony Charges for Allegedly Skydiving During Disability Leave

Authorities have leveled accusations of insurance fraud against a Los Angeles police…
$328 million Ponzi scheme uncovered leading to Florida man arrest

Florida Man Arrested in Massive $328 Million Ponzi Scheme Bust

A Florida resident has been apprehended on federal charges in connection with…
Asking Eric: Differing religious traditions create confusion in friendship

Navigating Faith: How Diverse Religious Traditions Challenge and Strengthen Friendships

Dear Eric: As an African American man nearing 70, I wouldn’t say…
Embattled Alberto Carvalho's multi-million dollar real estate portfolio revealed as LAUSD corruption probe rumbles on

Alberto Carvalho’s Extensive Real Estate Holdings Unveiled Amid Ongoing LAUSD Corruption Investigation

Superintendent Alberto Carvalho of the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) is…
Mass Graves Found in Mexico City Near Site for Upcoming World Cup Games

Shocking Discovery: Mass Graves Uncovered Near Mexico City’s Upcoming World Cup Venue

The recent unearthing of human remains in Mexico City, a stone’s throw…
Tom Steyer spends $66 million on California governor's race

Tom Steyer Invests $66 Million in California Gubernatorial Campaign

Tom Steyer’s campaign for the California governorship is burning through funds at…
Adorable video shows mama bear taking shelter under Lake Tahoe cabin with her newborn cubs

Heartwarming Moment: Mama Bear and Newborn Cubs Find Cozy Refuge Under Lake Tahoe Cabin

Prepare to be charmed by some irresistibly adorable cubs! A heartwarming video…
Notorious pedophile slapped with new charges just hours before he was due to be released from prison

Convicted Pedophile Faces Fresh Charges on Eve of Prison Release

In a dramatic turn of events, a convicted pedophile has been faced…
Child predator cleared for parole arrested after surprise warrant drops hours before prison release

Last-Minute Arrest: Parolee’s Release Halted by Unexpected Warrant

A convicted child molester from California, who was on the verge of…