Meta Platforms has introduced new safety measures for teenagers on Instagram, Facebook, and Messenger. Starting soon, users under 16 will need parental approval to use Instagram Live and to unblur nudity in direct messages they’ve received. These updates aim to enhance online safety for young users.
Originally launched in September, Meta’s teen account program was designed to give parents more control over their children’s social media activity amid growing concerns about the impact of these platforms on young people. The latest changes will first be available in the U.S., U.K., Canada, and Australia, with plans to expand globally in the coming months.
Key updates include making teen accounts private by default, blocking private messages from strangers, limiting access to sensitive content like violent videos, sending reminders to take breaks after 60 minutes of use, and disabling notifications during bedtime hours. These protections are now being extended beyond Instagram to Facebook and Messenger.
Since its launch, over 54 million teen accounts have been created under this program, reflecting its broad adoption and the growing emphasis on safeguarding young users in the digital space.