Instagram Introduces Teen Accounts: New Protections for Young Users
Beginning today, Instagram is implementing a new feature that will categorize all users under 18 as “Teen Accounts.” This significant update will influence how millions of adolescents engage with the social media platform. The introduction of this account type comes with enhanced safety measures designed to protect younger users, and only those who are 16 years old or older can adjust certain settings.
Default Privacy Settings for Minors
From now on, all accounts belonging to minors on Instagram will be set to private by default, ensuring that their profiles are not visible to the general public. This initiative extends beyond just users below 16 and aims to foster a safer online environment. Additionally, Instagram is reinforcing its existing safeguards for younger audiences by restricting unsolicited direct messages from strangers.
New Features: Sleep Mode and More
The platform is also rolling out new functionalities tailored specifically for teen accounts. One notable addition is the Sleep Mode feature, which mutes notifications during nighttime hours—from 10 PM until 7 AM—helping teenagers maintain healthier screen time habits.
A Step Towards Safer Online Spaces
This initiative reflects a growing recognition of the need for robust protections in digital spaces where young people interact frequently. With concerns regarding online safety at an all-time high, platforms like Instagram are taking proactive steps towards creating safer environments tailored specifically to their youngest users.
