Instagram is taking new steps to protect teenagers online by limiting the content they can access to PG-13 standards.
Meta announced on Tuesday that teens will automatically be placed in restricted accounts unless a parent or guardian allows them to opt out. The company called this the most significant update since introducing teen accounts last year.
“This includes hiding or not recommending posts with strong language, certain risky stunts, and additional content that could encourage potentially harmful behaviors, such as posts showing marijuana paraphernalia,” Meta said in a blog post.
These restrictions aim to shield young users from content that could negatively affect their mental health or encourage dangerous behavior.
Teen accounts are private by default and already filter out sensitive content, including posts promoting cosmetic procedures.
Under the new update, teens will no longer be able to follow accounts that consistently share adult material or have inappropriate links in their bios, such as OnlyFans. If a teen is already following such accounts, they will lose access to posts, messages, and comments. The accounts will also be blocked from following or messaging teen users.
Meta has also expanded the list of restricted search terms. Previously, sensitive topics such as suicide and eating disorders were blocked.
The update now includes additional words like “alcohol” and “gore,” even when intentionally misspelled. The PG-13 protections will extend to artificial intelligence chats and experiences aimed at teens.
“Meaning AIs should not give age-inappropriate responses that would feel out of place in a PG-13 movie,” the company explained.
Parents who want even more control can set up a stricter “limited content” mode. This setting removes the ability for teens to see or leave comments and blocks additional posts beyond the PG-13 restrictions.
Meta says these changes are part of its ongoing effort to make Instagram safer for young users amid growing criticism about social media’s effects on children.
The company emphasizes that all updates are designed to keep teen users safe without restricting access to age-appropriate social interactions or creative expression.
