Meta Touts Even More Protections for Teen Users. Here's What's New

Core Points - Meta has introduced new safety features aimed at enhancing the protection of teens and kids on its social media platforms, particularly Instagram and Facebook [1] - The new features include additional information and warnings about accounts that teens may contact via direct messages [1][2] - Meta reported that in June, 1 million Teen Accounts reported or blocked accounts, and another 1 million utilized the Location Notice feature [3] Group 1: New Features for Teen Accounts - New safety features in direct messages (DMs) provide teens with context about the accounts they are messaging, including safety tips and the account's join date [2] - DMs now include enhanced block and report functions, encouraging users to take action against suspicious accounts [2] Group 2: Response to Criticism - Meta has faced accusations regarding the impact of its platforms on minors, including claims from a whistleblower about targeted ads based on emotional states [3][4] - In response, the company has implemented improved safety features for underage users, including the introduction of "Teen Accounts" that limit contact and content visibility [4] Group 3: Protections for Adult Accounts Related to Children - Meta plans to extend similar protections to adult accounts that share content related to children, such as family blogs [5] - New measures will include strict message settings to prevent unwanted messages and the activation of Hidden Words to filter offensive comments [5]