Instagram is taking a bold step to make its platform safer for young users by expanding its use of artificial intelligence (AI) to verify the ages of its members. This move comes as concerns grow about the impact of social media on teens’ mental health and the need for stronger online protections.
The Challenge: Teens and Age Misrepresentation
It’s no secret that many teens are eager to join social media platforms before they reach the minimum age requirement. Some simply enter a false birthdate to bypass restrictions. Instagram, owned by Meta Platforms, has recognized this issue and is now using AI to proactively identify accounts where the user may have misrepresented their age.
How Instagram’s AI Age Verification Works
Instagram’s AI doesn’t just rely on the birthdate entered during sign-up. Instead, it looks for a variety of signals, such as the type of content the account interacts with, profile details, and when the account was created. By analyzing these factors, the AI can estimate whether an account truly belongs to a teen—even if the user tried to appear older.
If the AI suspects that a user is actually a teen who claimed to be an adult, Instagram will automatically convert the account to a teen account. This means more privacy, stricter content controls, and features designed to support digital wellbeing.
What Changes for Teen Accounts?
Teen accounts on Instagram come with several important safeguards:
- Private by Default: Only approved followers can see posts and stories.
- Restricted Messaging: Teens can only receive direct messages from people they follow or are already connected to.
- Sensitive Content Limits: Content like fighting videos or posts promoting cosmetic procedures is restricted.
- Screen Time Notifications: Teens receive alerts if they spend more than 60 minutes on the app.
- Sleep Mode: From 10 p.m. to 7 a.m., notifications are silenced and auto-replies are sent to direct messages, encouraging healthier sleep habits.
Why This Matters: The Bigger Picture
Social media companies are under increasing scrutiny for how their platforms affect young users. Lawmakers in several states are pushing for stricter age verification laws, and there’s growing pressure on tech companies to do more to protect children online.
Meta and other social media giants have suggested that app stores should play a bigger role in age verification. However, until broader solutions are in place, Instagram’s AI-driven approach is a significant step forward.
Tips for Parents: Supporting Teens Online
Instagram is also reaching out to parents, sending notifications with advice on how to talk to teens about the importance of providing accurate age information and staying safe online. Here are a few actionable tips for families:
- Have open conversations about online safety and why age restrictions exist.
- Encourage honesty when signing up for apps and explain the risks of misrepresenting age.
- Set boundaries for screen time and discuss the benefits of features like sleep mode.
- Stay informed about the latest safety tools and privacy settings on social media platforms.
Summary: Key Takeaways
- Instagram is using AI to detect and address age misrepresentation among teens.
- Teen accounts have enhanced privacy, content restrictions, and wellbeing features.
- The move is part of a broader effort to protect young users and respond to public concerns.
- Parents are encouraged to engage in conversations and use available tools to support their teens.
- Ongoing innovation in AI and policy will shape the future of online safety for kids and teens.