Instagram is rolling out major updates to strengthen the privacy of teen users, a move that will automatically set the accounts of users under the age of 18 to private. The update, effective Tuesday, is part of a broader Instagram initiative called “Teen Accounts,” aimed at improving online safety and creating a more age-appropriate environment for its youngest audiences.
With the new settings, teen users’ profiles will go private unless the account holder chooses otherwise. This means potential followers will have to approve to view, like, or comment on the user’s posts. The change is designed to protect minors from unwanted interactions and increase their control over the visibility of their personal content.
Instagram’s “Teen Accounts” initiative not only introduces these new privacy measures, but also incorporates existing protections to strengthen the safety framework for its youngest users. The company believes these changes will significantly improve the overall user experience for minors, helping them navigate the social media landscape more safely.