NEWS  Security  January 25, 2024  Reading time: 2 Minute(s)

Max (RS editor)

Meta is implementing robust measures to counteract the grooming of teens on its platforms. The latest update focuses on limiting direct messages (DMs) to teenagers, building on previous protective measures and introducing novel features to enhance parental control.

Meta's new measure prevents adults from sending unsolicited DMs to users under 16, a significant enhancement beyond the previous restriction that allowed messaging only if the teenager followed the adult. This comprehensive safeguard aims to minimize the risk of inappropriate interactions, acknowledging that there are few legitimate reasons for adults to initiate contact with unfamiliar minors on the platform.

Extension of Protections to All Users Under 16

Previously, Instagram restricted messaging from adults over 18 to teens who did not follow them. The updated protection now applies to all users under 16 and, in some regions, extends to those under 18 by default. Meta will notify existing users of these changes through notifications, emphasizing its commitment to keeping young users safe.

Messenger Safety Features

On Messenger, Meta is limiting messages to those from Facebook friends or contacts, providing an additional layer of security. This restriction ensures that minors interact only with individuals they are familiar with, reducing the risk of unsolicited contact from strangers.

Empowering Parents and Guardians

Meta is amplifying its parental controls, granting guardians the authority to approve or reject changes in default privacy settings made by teens. This advancement allows guardians to actively manage and monitor the online activities of their underage charges, providing a more secure digital environment.

Furthermore, In alignment with Apple's iMessage safety feature introduced in 2021, Meta plans to implement a similar system to detect and blur explicit images. This innovative feature will safeguard teens from potentially harmful content, displaying warnings and blurring sensitive images to protect them from explicit material.

Preventing Unwanted and Inappropriate Content

Meta aims to launch a feature that will prevent teens from encountering unwanted and inappropriate images in their DMs, even in end-to-end encrypted chats. This feature, designed to "discourage" teens from sharing such content, further reinforces the platform's commitment to maintaining a safe and positive online environment.

The recent initiatives underscore Meta's dedication to user safety, particularly among vulnerable teenage users. By implementing these comprehensive measures, the social media giant aims to create a secure space for young individuals while providing parents and guardians with the tools needed to actively participate in their children's digital well-being. These advancements represent a significant step forward in fostering a responsible and protective online community.

 SOURCE: TECHCRUNCH | COVER IMAGE BY STANDRET ON FREEPIK / REVIEW SPACE