Instagram is tightening its safety measures for teens by automatically placing all users under 18 into a PG-13 content setting. The new default limits exposure to posts featuring strong language, risky behavior, drug references or mature themes. Teens cannot disable the filters without a parent’s approval, and parents will have the option to activate an even stricter “limited content” mode.

The change builds on Instagram’s existing teen protections, including private-by-default profiles and limits on sensitive search results. Now, Meta plans to pair those restrictions with new age-prediction technology that identifies accounts likely operated by minors who misreport their age. The rollout will start in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada and Australia before expanding globally.

“Just like you might see some suggestive content or hear some strong language in a PG-13 movie, teens may occasionally see something like that on Instagram – but we’re going to keep doing all we can to keep those instances as rare as possible,” Meta wrote in a blog post.

Digital age verification

Instagram’s update follows a growing trend across major platforms to verify age more accurately and filter mature content. YouTube recently launched a generative AI age verification system in the United States that estimates users’ ages through viewing patterns and prompts for ID or credit card confirmation if a mismatch is detected. Meanwhile, Twitch has begun rolling out facial scan verification in select regions such as the United Kingdom, assuring users that the scans are processed locally and not stored.

These measures show that platforms are facing increased scrutiny from regulators and parents to ensure underage users cannot bypass restrictions.

Balancing safety and access

While Instagram’s PG-13 default may reduce exposure to harmful content, it also raises concerns about limiting access to educational or creative material. For creators, stricter filtering could affect the visibility of videos or posts aimed at younger audiences. The challenge for Meta and other platforms is finding a balance between safety and user freedom.