on addressing those concerns and making sure we’re putting safeguards in place to help keep teens safe on the platform.”Meta, which changed its name from Facebook last year, has faced criticism over how its platforms impact young people. The company’s own research has shown Instagram can harm some teens’ mental health, particularly around issues like body image and anxiety. Meta has also been accused of not doing enough to protect young users from harmful content and predators.Lawmakers around the world have been scrutinizing Meta and other tech companies over their impact on children. In the U.S., multiple states have introduced legislation to regulate social media and protect minors. In the U.K., a new online safety law is set to be introduced later this year that will require companies to protect children from harmful content and limit their time on social media platforms.Instagram has made changes in the past to address criticism over how it impacts young users. In 2019, the company started testing hiding “likes” on posts to reduce the pressure teens feel to get validation through likes. Last year, it introduced a feature that prompts teens to take a break from the app if they have been scrolling for too long. The introduction of teen accounts is the latest step in Meta’s efforts to make Instagram safer for young users.While the company says it is focused on addressing parents’ concerns about their teens’ online safety, some critics believe more needs to be done. For example, some argue that the verification process for teen accounts may not be effective in preventing underage users from accessing adult content. Others believe that the restrictions on sensitive content may not go far enough in protecting teens from harmful material. Additionally, there are concerns about how the new features may impact teens’ privacy and autonomy online.Despite the criticisms, Meta says it is committed to making Instagram a safer place for young people. The company says it will continue to listen to feedback from parents, experts, and teens themselves to improve the platform’s safety features. As social media continues to play a significant role in young people’s lives, it is crucial for companies like Meta to prioritize the well-being of their youngest users and take proactive steps to protect them from potential harm.
Instagram boosts safety with new teen accounts
