Meta has begun testing a new AI-based technology that can automatically detect teenage accounts, even if the profile shows the age of an adult. The pilot program started in the USA and is aimed at strengthening the safety of young users on the Instagram social network, informs press office platforms.
The system will act proactively — automatically detect potentially underage accounts and convert them to the “Teen Account” format with appropriate security settings. In the event of an error, users will have the option to modify these settings.
The company notes that AI is already being used to analyze users’ ages, but automatically putting accounts into a more secure mode is an important step forward.
The introduction of this technology is part of Meta’s wider strategy to strengthen the digital safety of teenagers. Earlier, the company introduced the “Teen Accounts” function in Instagram, which provides for restrictions on interactions, content and time spent online. All users under the age of 16 are automatically subject to these restrictions and can only change them with the consent of a parent or guardian.
Recently, the protection function was extended to the Facebook and Messenger platforms as well. According to surveys, more than 90% of parents find these tools useful in keeping their children safe on Instagram.
It is worth noting that in November last year, the Australian Parliament approved a law prohibiting the use of social networks by persons under the age of 16. According to it, companies such as Instagram and Facebook are obliged to block access for underage users, and in case of violation they face a fine of up to 32 million dollars.
