Introducing Instagram Teen Accounts: Safer Social Media for Teens

Instagram is rolling out Teen Accounts, a new feature designed to keep teens safe online. These accounts offer built-in protections that limit who can contact teens, what content they see, and how they interact on the platform. Parents also get more control and peace of mind knowing their teens are protected. This update is part of Instagram's ongoing efforts to create safer social media spaces for young users.

Why Instagram Teen Accounts Matter for Parents and Teens

As social media becomes more integral in teens' lives, parents are understandably concerned about online safety. Instagram’s Teen Accounts offer privacy settings that give parents greater control over their teens’ digital activities, while allowing teens to explore and interact safely. Teens are automatically placed in these accounts, with extra permissions required to adjust settings.

Key Features of Instagram Teen Accounts

Parental Supervision: Greater Control Over Teens’ Instagram Activity

Teens under 16 need parental permission to modify default settings in their Instagram Teen Account. Parents can set up supervision features that let them approve changes to privacy settings, manage daily screen time limits, and oversee who their teens are messaging. This supervision ensures that teens continue to enjoy a safe and positive experience on the platform.

Upcoming Features to Enhance Parental Involvement

In the coming months, Instagram will introduce new tools for parents, including the ability to block Instagram usage during certain hours and more direct control over settings that ensure age-appropriate content is seen. Parents can stay up to date with their teens' activities while respecting their privacy.

How Instagram Detects Teen Accounts

Instagram uses age verification technology to ensure teens are using the appropriate account settings. Teens may be asked to verify their age when signing up, or if the system detects discrepancies in the birthday listed in their account. If a teen is misrepresented as an adult, Instagram proactively applies the necessary teen protections to safeguard them.

Launch Timeline for Instagram Teen Accounts

Instagram Teen Accounts are launching in the US, UK, Canada, and Australia starting in September 2024, with a global rollout by early 2025. Teens already using Instagram will be moved into Teen Accounts by January 2025.