Meta is gearing up to use AI to spot Instagram users who might be lying about their age, as reported by Bloomberg. The company plans to sort users into two age brackets and move those under 18 into a “Teen Account” category, aiming to launch in early 2025.
The new AI tool, called Adult Classifier,” analyzes various details from an account, such as follower lists, content interactions, and even birthday posts. This data helps the system determine whether a user is likely above or below 18.
If the AI determines that an account belongs to a minor, it automatically switches the user to a Teen Account. This account type, introduced in September, comes with enhanced privacy features, including:
- Private accounts by default
- Limited messaging from unknown users
- Tighter controls on who can view content
Meta’s move comes as a response to increasing concerns from lawmakers about the impact of Instagram on teen mental health. By implementing the Adult Classifier, Meta aims to create a safer environment for younger users and address ongoing regulatory pressures.
Is there a way to create a “Teenager Account” profile?
Yes, teenagers who attempt to change their age on Instagram manually must provide proof to Meta. To verify their age, they may be asked to submit an official ID, like a driver’s license, or even send a video selfie. The selfie would be analyzed by a third-party service, Yoti, which estimates age based on facial features. This extra step ensures that users who claim to be older than their actual age are appropriately verified.
“Teen Account” Restrictions
This profile modality has default settings:
- Private account: Profiles are private by default, so teens need to accept new followers;
- Message restrictions: The account will only be able to receive messages from people they follow or are already connected to;
- Restrictions on sensitive content: limit the type of content teens see on Explore and Reels;
- Limitation of interactions: Teens can only be tagged or mentioned by people who follow them;
- Time Limit Reminder: Users receive notifications informing them to close the app after 60 minutes per day;
- Rest Mode: It activates between 10 pm and 7 am, will silence notifications overnight, and send automatic replies to DMs.
Incorrectly classified accounts
If a user’s account is incorrectly classified as a teen account, they can request Meta to remove this designation. According to Bloomberg, this feature is still being developed, but users who experience this error can deactivate the teen account status manually. This can be done without needing prior approval from their parents.
