Instagram has announced new restrictions for teenagers, limiting their access to content rated PG-13 by default. This change means that users under 18 will only see posts that align with the standards of a PG-13 movie, which excludes material related to sex, drugs, and dangerous stunts. The update, described as the most significant since the introduction of teen accounts last year, requires parental permission for any changes to these settings.

Meta, the parent company of Instagram, stated that the new guidelines will prevent the platform from recommending posts that contain strong language, risky stunts, or content that could promote harmful behaviors, such as marijuana paraphernalia. All users under 18 will automatically be placed in restrictive teen accounts unless a parent opts them out. These accounts are private by default and already filter out sensitive content, including posts about cosmetic procedures.

The changes come amid ongoing criticism of social media's impact on children. Meta has previously committed to not showing inappropriate content to teens, including posts about self-harm, eating disorders, or suicide. However, a recent report indicated that some teen accounts were still recommended age-inappropriate sexual content, including graphic descriptions and nudity. The report also highlighted that Instagram suggested content related to self-harm and body image issues, which could negatively affect teenagers' mental health.

Under the new restrictions, teens will not be able to follow accounts that frequently share age-inappropriate content or have names or bios that suggest inappropriateness, such as links to OnlyFans. If they already follow such accounts, they will lose the ability to see or interact with that content. Additionally, these accounts will not be able to follow teens or comment on their posts.

Meta has also expanded its list of blocked search terms related to sensitive topics, now including terms like "alcohol" and "gore," even if misspelled. The PG-13 content guidelines will also apply to artificial intelligence interactions targeted at teens, ensuring that AI responses remain appropriate for a PG-13 audience.

For parents seeking stricter controls, Meta is introducing a "limited content" setting that will further restrict what teens can see and interact with on the platform. This update comes as Australia prepares to implement a law that bans social media access for children under 16, raising the minimum age from 13. The global implications of this law are being closely monitored by other governments and social media platforms.