Instagram is testing new ways for teens to verify their age and follow the rules of the platform. The Meta-owned app is exploring through selfie videos using facial analysis software, as a new method that can identify the exact age of the user.
This need arose after it was noticed that many minors modified their date of birth and edited photos to look over 18 years old, but now teenagers in America will have to go through at least 3 ways to verify their age true: 1- by uploading the identity card, ask 3 adults to come out as a guarantor for them or through a selfie video that does the feature analysis.
Meta hopes these methods will help teens have an "age-appropriate experience" on Instagram as well as protect minors from everything that happens on social media.
Instagram has even before faced criticism related to teens and their safety on the platform.
"Giant platforms should leave behind the 'pretend not to see' behavior as this has put millions of children at risk. Even the exact age of the user is not enough," said representatives of child protection organizations in the digital environment.
Parents of teen users are now given the opportunity to step-by-step monitor their children’s Instagram experience. Starting earlier this month, they can see in detail what their kids have done while staying on Instagram or they can limit their online space.
Source: BBC
