Meta is implementing artificial intelligence to detect if users under 18 are lying about their age on Instagram. The platform, which restricts access to users aged 13 and older, will automatically apply stricter privacy settings to accounts flagged as suspicious.
This development comes amid increasing scrutiny of Instagram, which has faced criticism for exposing children to harmful content and addictive behaviors. In response, Meta has introduced various tools, including profiles for minors and measures to combat sextortion.
The AI tool will analyze specific indicators, such as followed accounts and interacted content, to identify potential age misrepresentation. Users incorrectly classified will have the option to appeal, although details on this process remain unclear.
Additionally, when users under 18 attempt to change their account information, they will be prompted to upload identification or a video selfie for verification. Previously, Meta partnered with Yoti to provide software that estimates age based on facial features.
As social media platforms face renewed scrutiny, especially Instagram and TikTok, Meta is also dealing with legal challenges from over 30 U.S. states, echoing concerns raised by former employee Frances Haugen about the impact of their products on youth.