1. Stricter Instagram Live & DM Controls
- Under-16 users can no longer go live without parent/guardian approval.
- Cannot disable DM filters that block explicit images & spam.
- Real-time notifications alert parents about account changes.
2. Instagram Teen Accounts (Now in India)
- Launched globally in 2023, now available in India.
- 54M+ teens worldwide already use it.
- Features:
- Restricted exposure to sensitive content
- Time management tools
- Parental supervision dashboard
3. Coming Soon: Facebook & Messenger Teen Accounts
- Same protections as Instagram (2024 rollout).
- Parental controls for friend requests, messages & content visibility.
Why Is Meta Introducing These Changes?
- India has one of the largest youth populations online.
- 97% of teens (13-15) globally kept default safety settings.
- Growing concerns over cyberbullying, scams & inappropriate content.
How Do Parents Set Up Teen Accounts?
- Link parent & teen accounts via Meta Family Center.
- Enable supervision for:
- Live streaming permissions
- DM filter locks
- Screen time limits
- Receive alerts if teens try to bypass restrictions.
Comparison: Meta’s Teen Safety Features
| Feature | Facebook (Coming Soon) | Messenger (Coming Soon) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parental approval for Live | Yes | No (TBD) | No (TBD) |
| DM filter locks | Yes | No | Likely |
| Sensitive content filters | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Screen time tracking | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Expert Reactions
- Tara Hopkins (Meta Policy Director):
“We’re empowering teens while letting parents guide them safely.“ - Twinkle Khanna (Child Safety Advocate):
“Teens get independence, but parents ensure they avoid digital icebergs.”
What’s Next?
- Global expansion of Teen Accounts.
- AI-powered content moderation for younger users.
- More regional adaptations based on local laws.
Disclaimer:
Features may vary based on device & region. Parents should manually enable supervision.