To stem the tide of negative impacts on young users, Instagram has recently launched new features to protect teens.
With the introduction of “Instagram Teen Accounts”, the platform is rolling out a suite of new features and default settings designed to create a safer, more age-appropriate experience for teenagers.
As a parent, you might wonder what this means for your child and how it affects their online safety – especially with an app as popular as Instagram. So, beyond the existing Instagram parental controls, how does this new account type change the app?
The Big Picture: Instagram’s Teen Account Initiative
Instagram’s new Teen Accounts are more than a skin-deep change—they’re a fundamental shift in how the platform approaches youth safety.
According to Meta, these new account types come with built-in protections that limit who can contact teens and the content they see and new ways for teens to explore their interests safely. And with nearly 59% of surveyed teens saying they use Instagram, having a way to ensure the majority stay safe is critical.
- Automatic Private Accounts: All new accounts created by users under 16 will be private by default.
- Messaging Restrictions: Teens can only be messaged by people they follow or are already connected to.
- Sensitive Content Limitations: The app will auto-apply the most restrictive settings for sensitive content.
- Interaction Controls: Only people followed by the teen can tag or mention them in posts.
- Time Management: Teens will get notifications to take a break after 60 minutes of daily use.
- Sleep Mode: Notifications will be muted between 10 PM and 7 AM.
These will roll out globally, starting in the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and other regions in the coming months.
What Are Instagram Teen Account Privacy Protections?
While it’s good that Instagram is taking steps to protect its younger users, it’s key to know exactly what these privacy protections mean – and what shortcomings you’ll want to be aware of as a parent or guardian.
1. Private Accounts by Default
For years privacy advocates have been asking for stronger default settings on social media platforms. With 59% of U.S. teens ages 13-17 on Instagram, Instagram is now taking a step forward in creating specific account types for this age range.
So what does this new default privacy setting look like?
- Only approved followers can see your teen’s posts and stories
- Your teen’s content won’t appear in public spaces like Explore or hashtag pages
- Adds an extra layer of control over who can interact with your teen’s content
Teens can still switch to a public account, but this default setting encourages them to think more about their online privacy from the start.
2. Tighter Messaging Controls
Direct messaging has been a concern for many parents as it can expose teens to unwanted contact from strangers. The new messaging restrictions address this by limiting messages to only people the teen follows or is connected to. The goal is to reduce the risk of unsolicited messages or contact from unknown users.
By creating a more controlled environment for online interactions Instagram hopes to reduce the risk of inappropriate contact while still allowing teens to talk to their friends and trusted connections.
3. Tighter Control on Sensitive Content
Instagram is taking a proactive approach to content moderation for teen accounts by:
- Auto-applying the most restrictive setting of their sensitive content control
- Limiting exposure to potentially inappropriate or mature content
- Creating a more age-appropriate browsing experience
This means teens will see less content that might not be suitable for their age group whether it’s in Explore, Reels or other parts of the app.
4. Limited Interactions for Extra Safety
By limiting who can tag or mention a teen user Instagram is adding another layer of protection against unwanted interactions. This feature:
- Reduces the chance of teens being drawn into conversations or content they’re not comfortable with
- Prevents potential harassment or bullying through tags and mentions
- Gives teens more control over their online presence and who can interact with them publicly
5. Time Management Updates
One of the most interesting features of these new Instagram Teen Accounts is the time limits. Pew research has found that 36% of teens fear that they spend too much time on social media, so these new features should help strike a balance.
After 60 minutes of daily use teens will get a notification, suggesting they take a break. This gentle nudge can be a powerful tool in helping teens become more aware of their social media use.
Instagram’s new time limits are designed to encourage a better balance of app usage and more communication between teens and their parents/guardians.
6. Sleep Mode for Bedtime
Similar to the time limits, the new accounts also include Instagram’s new sleep mode. This will:
- Mutes notifications during nighttime hours (10 PM to 7 AM)
- Reduces late night scrolling
- Helps with sleep hygiene and overall well-being
How to Sign Up for an Instagram Teen Account
If your teen is new to Instagram or you want to switch their existing account to a Teen Account, here’s a step-by-step guide to get started:
For New Users:
- Download the Instagram app: Available on both iOS and Android devices.
- Open the app and tap “Sign Up”: You’ll see options to sign up with your phone number or email.
- Enter your teen’s information: This includes their email or phone number, full name, and birthday.
- Choose a username and password: Help your teen select a username that doesn’t reveal too much personal information.
- Complete the sign-up process: Follow the on-screen instructions to finalize the account creation.
Note: If the birth date entered indicates the user is under 18, Instagram will automatically set up the account with Teen Account features.
For Existing Users:
- Open the Instagram app and go to your teen’s profile.
- Tap the three lines (hamburger menu) in the top right corner.
- Go to “Settings and Privacy”.
- Scroll down and tap on “Account Type and Tools”.
- Look for “Switch to Teen Account” or a similar option.
- Follow the prompts to convert the account to a Teen Account.
Remember, to switch to a Teen Account, the user’s age in their Instagram settings must be under 18. If your teen’s current account shows them as 18 or older, you may need to update their birth date in the account settings first.
A Step Toward A Balanced Approach to Instagram Privacy
Instagram’s new Teen Accounts and privacy features are a step in the right direction towards creating a safer online environment for young users. But they’re not a magic fix.
Remember, the most important thing for your teen’s online safety and privacy is:
- Using platform-provided safety tools and settings
- Having open and honest conversations with your teen about their online life
- Teaching critical thinking and digital literacy skills
- Leading by example in your own social media use
By taking a balanced, informed approach, we can help our teens navigate the complex world of social media while enjoying its benefits and minimizing its risks.
Remember, the goal isn’t to create a completely risk-free environment (which is impossible), but to equip our teens with the tools, knowledge, and support they need to make smart decisions online.
Want to learn more about creating a safer digital environment for your family? Visit Kidslox for more tips, tools, and insights on digital parenting in the modern age.
