Limits on Facebook and Instagram Usage: Will Nighttime Access Be Blocked? Meta Prepares for Changes

Meta may soon implement significant changes to its social media platforms, Facebook and Instagram. Under these changes, the apps might become inaccessible at night, and a daily usage limit of just two hours could be imposed. This measure is expected to apply specifically to accounts held by teenagers.

Limits on Social Media Usage to be Set

Mark Zuckerberg's company has filed a consent agreement with a California court. The agreement stipulates that, in addition to paying a $14 billion (approximately ₹1.15 lakh crore) fine, the company must adhere to certain court-recommended rules. According to the office of California Attorney General Rob Bonta, these regulations will apply only to users under the age of 18. However, it remains unclear when Meta intends to implement these rules.

What is the Issue?

A California court had been hearing 28 cases filed against Meta over the past two weeks, involving serious allegations. A key issue was the negative impact that apps like Facebook and Instagram were having on children. The allegations claimed that the company was intentionally addicting children to its social media platforms, driven by specific features within the apps.

Following the lawsuit in the Oakland-based court, an agreement was reached requiring Meta to pay $14 billion (approximately ₹1.15 lakh crore) and comply with specific regulations. This settlement will resolve the ongoing case against Meta and provide relief regarding other pending lawsuits.

Government of India Takes a Firm Stand

Recently, the Government of India adopted a stern stance, indicating that it would take action against Meta for negligence regarding child safety. The government has expressed serious concern over instances of child abuse on the company's social media platforms, particularly Instagram and Facebook, and has conveyed a clear message to Meta regarding Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM). In response, Meta has swung into action and is exercising greater diligence in filtering and removing illegal content from its platforms.