Meta makes Instagram safer for teenagers with this new account 'feature': What is it, how it works and more

Teen Notifications

In pursuit of making Instatram friendly for kids and teenagers, Meta has introduced Teen accounts in India. The new account introduces advanced safety features designed to create a secure online environment for younger users. The rollout aligns with Safer Internet Day, reinforcing Instagram’s focus on digital safety.

What is Instagram’s Teen Account?

Instagram Teen Accounts provide built-in safety measures for users under 18, with stricter privacy settings, content controls, and parental supervision options. These accounts automatically place users under 16 in the highest safety settings, with limited interactions and content restrictions.

How it works

New and existing teen users will be enrolled in the default Teen Account settings, including private profiles, limited messaging, restricted exposure to sensitive content, and screen time reminders. Any changes that make the account less restrictive for users under 16 will require parental approval.

Key features of Instagram Teen account

- Private accounts: Default setting for teens, restricting profile visibility to approved followers.

- Messaging limits: Direct messages are restricted to users they follow.

- Sensitive content restrictions: Exposure to content related to violence, cosmetic procedures, and other topics is reduced.

- Limited interactions: Tags and mentions are restricted to approved connections.

- Screen time management: Prompts encourage users to take breaks after extended usage.

- Sleep mode: Notifications are muted from 10 PM to 7 AM.

Parents monitoring tools

Parents can monitor and manage their teen’s Instagram experience. For users under 16, parental approval is required to reduce safety settings. Parents of older teens (16+) can enable supervision at any time.

Available controls include:

- Approving safety setting changes.

- Monitoring recent contacts without viewing messages.

- Setting daily screen time limits.

- Restricting app access during specific hours.

Enforcement and age verification

Instagram is strengthening age verification to prevent users from bypassing restrictions. Additional verification steps will be required when users attempt to sign up with an adult birthdate. Content protection measures will also limit exposure to inappropriate material, including posts shared by followed accounts.