Meta prohibits teenagers from livestreaming on Instagram without parental consent

Meta is enhancing safety measures for teenagers on Instagram by restricting livestreaming for under-16s unless they have parental permission, The Guardian reported. This change also applies to a new teen account system being rolled out on Facebook and Messenger, which includes features like parental controls for daily usage limits and message monitoring. Initially, these measures will be available in the US, UK, Australia, and Canada.

Meta reports that 54 million under-18s use Instagram, with over 90% of 13- to 15-year-olds adhering to default restrictions. The NSPCC welcomed these changes but urged Meta to take further steps to prevent harmful content on its platforms.

These updates coincide with the UK’s Online Safety Act, which mandates tech companies to prevent illegal content and protect children from harmful material. Concerns have been raised about potential compromises to the act in trade discussions, which child safety advocates oppose.