Instagram Restricts Live Streaming for Underage Users: New Parental Control Features by Meta

Meta, the parent company of Instagram, has rolled out a significant update to protect underage users across its platforms, including Instagram, Facebook, and Messenger. This update is aimed at enhancing the digital safety of teenagers, particularly those under the age of 16.

What’s New?

The latest changes primarily restrict users under 16 years of age from initiating live broadcasts on Instagram without parental consent. This restriction is part of Meta’s broader strategy to ensure a safer online environment for young users.

Purpose of the Update

According to Tara Hopkins, Global Director of Public Policy at Instagram:

“The aim of these changes is to strengthen online protections for teenagers and ensure parents have greater control over their children's digital activities.”

These changes are part of the Teen Account Settings framework that was introduced by Meta in the previous year.

Who is Affected?

Key Features of the Update

Teen Account Settings

• Introduced in 2024

• Applies to Instagram, Facebook, and Messenger

• Provides safety guidelines and restrictions tailored for users under 18

Family Center

Meta’s Family Center allows parents and guardians to:

• Monitor screen time

• View recent followers and followed accounts

• Set time limits

• Approve or restrict access to sensitive content

• Manage permissions for live broadcasts and account settings

Reach and Impact

As of now, over 55 million teen accounts have been brought under this updated system. Interestingly, 97% of these users are under the age of 16, making this update highly relevant.

How It Works:

Benefits for Parents and Guardians

With this rollout, Meta gives more control to parents than ever before:

• Real-time monitoring of children's digital activities

• Restrictions on account setting modifications

• Notification alerts for certain actions

Expansion to Other Meta Platforms

This safety framework is not limited to Instagram. Similar controls are now being introduced on:

• Facebook

• Messenger

This ensures a uniform safety protocol across all Meta platforms.