Meta Tightens Rules for Users Under 16: Parental Permission Now Mandatory for Certain Actions

In a move to enhance teen safety, Meta has introduced stricter rules for users under the age of 16 across its platforms—Facebook, Instagram, and Messenger. The decision comes amid growing concerns about online safety and the potential negative influence of social media on young users.

🔐 Stricter Controls for Young Users

Meta announced on Tuesday that users under 16 will now be required to obtain parental permission to host live videos on its platforms. In addition, teens will no longer be able to share explicit or nude images via direct messaging, addressing a major concern around inappropriate content circulation among minors.

📱 What Is a Teen Account?

Last September, Meta rolled out the "Teen Account" settings for Instagram, which restrict access to sensitive content and limit private messaging. These protections have now been extended to Facebook and Messenger, with stricter enforcement.

Key features of Teen Accounts include:

• Restrictions on viewing sensitive or potentially harmful content.

• Limitations on sending private messages to unknown users.

• Automatic setting of accounts to private for users under 18.

• Ability for 16- and 17-year-olds to customize some privacy settings.

According to Meta, 97% of users aged 13–15 have already enabled these protective settings. In total, over 54 million users are currently registered under Teen Accounts.

🗣️ Meta’s Statement on the Policy Update

A Meta spokesperson clarified,

“Our policies on child exploitation content, self-harm, suicide, or eating disorder promotion remain unchanged. Similarly, there are no changes to our bullying and harassment policies for users under 18.”

The new policy changes are part of Meta’s continued effort to address rising criticism from lawmakers and parents regarding the safety of minors on its platforms. Last year, more than 30 U.S. states filed a lawsuit against Meta, alleging the company failed to protect young users and contributed to their exploitation.

✅ Bottom Line

These changes aim to empower parents, protect children, and ensure that Meta’s platforms remain safer spaces for younger audiences. With rising concerns about the impact of social media on teens, Meta’s latest update signals a more cautious and privacy-focused approach to youth engagement online.