Default Safety Features for Teen Accounts
Instagram’s Teen Accounts include several built-in restrictions:
- Private Accounts by default. Teen accounts are automatically set to private, so anyone under 18 will need to manually approve follow requests.
- Restricted Messaging. Teens can only receive messages from people they follow, and they can only be tagged or mentioned by accounts they already follow.
- Sensitive Content Filters. Content filters are set to the most restrictive settings to prevent exposure to violent or inappropriate videos. This applies to the Explore and Reels sections of the app.
- Hidden Words Feature. The Hidden Words tool will block unwanted comments and messages automatically.
- Sleep Mode. A new sleep mode will mute notifications and messages from 10 PM to 7 AM to help teens avoid late-night distractions.
- Usage Reminders. Teens will be reminded to take a break after spending an hour on the app.
Improved Parental Controls
- Message Insights. Parents can view who their teens have messaged over a seven-day period without seeing the content of the messages. This includes reactions and replies to stories and notes.
- Supervision Features. Parents can see their teens' content preferences, set daily usage limits, and block Instagram access during specific hours.
This update reflects Instagram’s efforts to create a safer environment for its younger users while giving parents more control over their teens' online activity.
