Instagram will block teen users from following accounts with inappropriate usernames or links, and remove access to search terms like ‘gore’ and ‘alcohol’|metanewsroom|Instagram
Instagram has updated its “Teen Accounts” settings to align with PG-13 movie guidelines, starting Tuesday for underage users in the US, UK, Canada, and Australia. A worldwide rollout is expected in the coming months.
What it means
The new measures will limit exposure to strong language, risky behaviors, and age-inappropriate content.
It will also block teen users from following accounts with inappropriate usernames or links, and remove access to search terms like “gore” and “alcohol.” It will not recommend and, in some cases, hide content related to risky stunts or marijuana paraphernalia.
Instagram had previously set Teen Accounts automatically to private, pausing notifications from 10 p.m to 7 a.m, and restricted Reels and Explore content.
The new update follows rising criticism from parents and doctors about the harm social media use causes to teenagers. A recent study shows nearly 60% of 13- to 15-year-olds reported seeing unsafe content or unwanted messages this year.
Global restrictions on teen social media use are on the rise. Denmark announced a ban on social media for users under 15, although it can be accessed with parental permission. Australia is also debating a similar ban.