Meta’s Teen Accounts: New Protections Spanning Facebook and Messenger

Meta is expanding its Teen Accounts protections, previously launched on Instagram, to both Facebook and Messenger. This initiative aims to create safer, age-appropriate online experiences for younger users across its platforms.

Overview of Teen Accounts

Initially, the Instagram Teen Accounts were introduced last year to provide a safer environment for teens aged 13 to 15 by default. The accounts are designed to address significant concerns expressed by parents. Key features include restrictions on who can message these teens, filters to block inappropriate content, and prompts encouraging teens to take breaks from their social media activity. Notably, teens under 16 must obtain parental consent to modify any of these default settings. Meta reports that 97% of teenagers in this age bracket have retained these built-in safety features.

Expansion to Facebook and Messenger

Now, Meta is broadening these same safety measures to Facebook and Messenger. Starting this month, the Teen Accounts will roll out in the US, UK, Australia, and Canada, with a worldwide launch anticipated shortly. These new accounts will similarly have automatic protections to limit exposure to inappropriate content and unwanted interactions, as well as promoting healthy habits regarding screen time.

Updates to Instagram Teen Accounts

Alongside the broader rollout, Meta is introducing several updates specific to Instagram Teen Accounts. Soon, teens under 16 will need parental consent to go live or to deactivate the feature that obscures suspected nude images in direct messages. These enhancements are expected to be implemented in the coming months.

Parental Feedback and Statistical Insights

Meta asserts that these protective measures are based on valuable feedback from parents. A recent Ipsos survey commissioned by the company revealed that 94% of parents in the US view Teen Accounts as beneficial, while 85% believe these protections facilitate ensuring their children have positive online experiences.

Currently, there are over 54 million active Teen Accounts globally. Meta remains dedicated to enhancing safety across all of its applications. The company stated in their recent update that they are encouraged by the advancement made but acknowledges that their commitment to supporting parents and teens is ongoing.