Title: Meta Platforms Introduces New Measures to Protect Young Users on Facebook and Instagram
Facebook and Instagram, owned by Meta Platforms, have announced the implementation of new restrictions aimed at safeguarding their younger users. In response to mounting concerns about addictive apps and their impact on mental health, these changes are expected to provide better protection for teenagers and censor age-inappropriate content on both platforms.
Meta will begin hiding content related to self-harm, suicide, and eating disorders from teen users, ensuring they are shielded from potentially harmful topics. These adjustments will be rolled out within the coming months and will be applicable to both Facebook and Instagram.
Furthermore, users who are under the age of 18 will automatically be placed in the most restrictive content control settings. This move aims to provide an additional layer of protection for young individuals on both platforms.
In addition to these changes, Meta is also making it more challenging for teens to search for sensitive topics. By limiting access to such content, the company hopes to mitigate potential risks associated with young users stumbling upon harmful material.
These developments come as Meta faces increased scrutiny and legal challenges surrounding concerns that its apps contribute to a youth mental health crisis. Numerous states have filed lawsuits against Meta, alleging that its platforms have had a detrimental effect on the mental health of young Americans.
The lawsuits claim that Meta misled users by downplaying the prevalence of harmful content on its platforms. It is alleged that Meta’s recommendation algorithm and social comparison features, such as “Likes,” promote compulsive use and lead to mental health issues among its young users.
In response to the lawsuits, Meta expressed disappointment that attorneys general have chosen a legal approach instead of collaborating with the industry to establish clear standards for teen apps. Nonetheless, similar lawsuits have already been filed against other popular platforms like YouTube and TikTok, highlighting growing concerns regarding the addictive nature of these apps.
With these new restrictions, Meta Platforms is taking steps to ensure the safety and well-being of its young users on Facebook and Instagram. By limiting exposure to age-inappropriate content and making it harder to find sensitive topics, the company is actively addressing concerns and striving to create a safer online environment for teens.
“Infuriatingly humble tv expert. Friendly student. Travel fanatic. Bacon fan. Unable to type with boxing gloves on.”