New Delhi: Social media giant Meta has introduced new safety rules for teenagers on its platforms — Instagram, Facebook, and Messenger — as part of its ongoing efforts to create age-appropriate and safer digital spaces.
Under the new policy, users under 16 will now be barred from using Instagram Live unless they receive explicit parental permission. They also won’t be able to unblur potentially nude content in direct messages without parental approval.
Parental Permission Made Mandatory for Certain Features
Meta’s update builds on its ‘Teen Accounts’ program launched in 2023, which gives parents more control over their children’s online activity.
For now, the new safety features are being implemented in the US, UK, Canada, and Australia, with a global rollout expected soon.
“Teenagers under the age of 16 will now need parental approval to go live or change settings related to sensitive content,” Meta said in a statement.
New Protections on Facebook and Messenger
In addition to Instagram, Meta is also adding protective features for teens on Facebook and Messenger. These include:
- Default private accounts for new teen users
- Blocking messages from unknown users
- Reduced exposure to sensitive or inappropriate content
- Reminders after 60 minutes of app use
- Muted notifications during sleep hours
According to Meta, over 54 million teen accounts have already been created under the supervised experience program.
Why This Matters
These changes come at a time when there is growing concern worldwide about the impact of social media on teen mental health, screen time, and online safety. Meta’s updates aim to create a more controlled, healthy digital environment for young users.
Experts believe these steps are necessary, but many also call for greater transparency, regular audits, and stronger laws to protect minors online.
