Instagram is now using artificial intelligence to detect underage users. Meta, which owns Instagram, has introduced a system to find teenagers who lie about their age. This new AI feature is already live in countries like India and the United States. The goal is to create a safer space for young users online.
The AI scans each user’s activity, photos, friends, and messages. It looks for patterns that match typical teen behaviour. When it finds a mismatch between claimed age and actual use, the system steps in. If it confirms the user is a teen, the account is automatically changed. It becomes a “teen account” with limited features.
What the AI Does Differently
Earlier, Instagram relied on users to enter their real birthdate. But many teens lied about their age to access adult content. Now, Meta’s AI goes beyond that. It uses machine learning to analyse behaviour and visual clues. This makes it harder to fool the system.
The AI quietly works in the background. Users may not even know it’s checking their account. But once flagged, restrictions apply instantly. The changes are automatic and can’t be turned off manually.
What Changes for Teen Accounts
Teen accounts come with added privacy and safety controls. Unknown people can’t send direct messages anymore. Tags, comments, and follows are limited to known contacts. Content considered sensitive or mature is also hidden from view. These steps are meant to reduce exposure to online risks.
Instagram says this approach is better for mental health. Many young users are often targeted by strangers or shown harmful content. With these AI tools, such risks are expected to drop.
Why This Move Matters
Social media has long struggled to protect teen users. Fake age claims are common, and dangerous chats often follow. Meta says the new AI is more accurate and responsive. It no longer depends on what users claim. Instead, it observes how they behave online.
This helps Instagram react faster to threats. It also means fewer loopholes for underage users trying to bypass rules. While no system is perfect, this is a big shift in how age is handled online.
What Lies Ahead for Meta
Meta plans to update this AI regularly. The system will learn from its mistakes and improve over time. Meta admits there may still be errors. But new updates will keep making it more accurate.
They are also looking to bring the same tech to Facebook. If successful, other platforms may follow the same route. Age detection could soon become standard across social media.
Public and Expert Reactions
Parents and child safety groups have supported the move. Experts believe it’s a smart step toward online safety. With AI watching for fake profiles, harmful exposure can be reduced. This isn’t the final solution, but it’s a major improvement.
Teens can still try to cheat the system. But with AI evolving fast, that gap may close soon. Instagram’s effort shows that tech can be used for good—especially when it protects the youngest users online.
