Instagram Locks Content for Global Teenagers, "13+" Standard Officially Applies

Jakarta - Instagram has officially expanded its content restriction policy for teenage users to the rest of the world. This step was taken by its parent company, Meta Platforms, by adopting an age-based approach of 13+ which was previously only tested in some countries.

Now, teenagers in various regions will automatically receive stricter protection against content containing violence, sexuality, and drugs.

"Film 13+" Standard Becomes Instagram Content Standard for Teenagers

Instagram said the new policy was inspired by the 13+ age rating system, which parents are familiar with.

"Like in 13+ rated movies, teens may occasionally see suggestive content or strong language, but we will continue to work to make this very rare," Instagram wrote in its official statement.

With this approach, the experience of using Instagram for teenagers is expected to be equivalent to watching a movie that is considered safe for that age - even with strict limits.

What has changed?

Previously, Instagram had implemented a number of protections for teen accounts, such as defaulting to private account settings, restricting messages only from connections, to sensitive content filters.

However, with this new policy, the screening system is tightened globally and more consistent in all countries.

In addition, users under 16 years of age still require parental permission to loosen certain settings - indicating that family control is still an important element of this ecosystem.

Film Rating Controversy

Interestingly, this film-based rating approach has been criticized. The Motion Picture Association previously sent a letter of objection to Meta, assessing that the film rating system cannot be equated with the much more complex dynamics of social media content.

Even so, Meta continues to pursue this strategy as an effort to create standards that are easier for parents to understand.

Global Pressure Increases

Instagram's move is not standing alone. In recent times, pressure on digital platforms to protect children and adolescents has continued to increase, both from regulators and the public.

From legal challenges in the United States to plans for strict regulation in Europe and the United Kingdom, the social media industry is now in a phase of redefining responsibility.

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