Instagram Gets Smarter with AI Tools to Block Fake Teen Accounts
Meta is using artificial intelligence (AI) to crack down on underage users who may have lied about their age on Instagram. This new feature automatically places suspected teens into “Teen Accounts,” even if they list themselves as adults. Teen Accounts, which were introduced last year, provide a more controlled experience for users under 16, limiting interactions and restricting certain types of content.
The move comes as part of Meta’s larger commitment to improve the safety and well-being of teens across its platforms. With this update, the company is targeting underage users who may have bypassed the platform’s age restrictions, putting them into a more controlled environment designed for safer interactions.
What Are Teen Accounts?
Launched last year, Teen Accounts are designed specifically for users under 16. These accounts limit who can interact with the user and restrict access to certain types of content, aiming to provide a safer experience for young people. When Meta detects that an account might belong to a teen, even if the age listed on the account is that of an adult, the system will automatically place them into a restricted Teen Account.
This proactive approach helps to minimize the risk of harmful interactions and ensures that younger users are shielded from inappropriate content. The goal is to create a safer online environment for teens and give parents more control over their child’s social media experience.
AI Tools for Age Verification
Meta has been using AI for some time to estimate a user’s age, but this new feature takes things a step further. The company utilizes AI to analyze contextual clues, such as birthday wishes and tips from other users, to cross-check with the birthdate listed on a user’s account. By doing so, Meta can more accurately determine whether a user is actually a teen, even if their profile claims otherwise.
Although the company says it’s still fine-tuning the AI tools for accuracy, they are confident that the system will catch many instances of age misrepresentation. If a user is flagged by the AI and placed into a Teen Account but believes the system has made an error, they will have the option to contest the decision and update their settings.
Enhancing Teen Safety on Social Media
Meta’s move comes in response to increasing concerns about online safety, particularly for young users. The platform has been under scrutiny worldwide for its responsibility toward teen users, especially amid rising concerns about cyberbullying, inappropriate content, and the exploitation of young users for marketing purposes. By automatically enrolling suspected teens into restricted accounts, Meta hopes to take a significant step toward better protecting them online.
In addition to these AI-driven changes, Meta has also committed to helping parents protect their children’s online presence. The company plans to notify parents directly about their child’s account status, offering guidance on how to engage with their teen about providing accurate age information and understanding the importance of online safety.
How This Affects Parents and Teen Users
Meta’s new AI-powered age verification system is designed to be a collaborative effort between the company and parents to ensure the safety of teens on the platform. Parents will be notified when their child is placed in a Teen Account, and they will be encouraged to verify their child’s birthdate to ensure it aligns with the platform’s age requirements.
This initiative is part of Meta’s broader strategy to extend Teen Accounts to other platforms like Facebook and Messenger, which will help keep teens safe across all of Meta’s apps. With over 54 million teens currently enrolled in Teen Accounts globally, the move has proven to be a crucial step toward creating a safer, more responsible digital environment.