New Teen Accounts Introduced on Facebook and Messenger in EU

Meta has announced the launch of teen accounts for Facebook and Messenger in the European Union, a feature previously available on Instagram. This initiative aims to enhance protection and oversight for younger users while allowing parents to monitor their children's activities.

Initially rolled out for Instagram in September 2024, the teen account feature is designed for users under 16. It requires parental consent for certain settings modifications. Notably, these accounts are set to private by default, meaning that new followers must be approved, and content remains hidden from non-followers.

In addition to privacy settings, the messaging features are also tightly controlled. Teens will only receive messages from users they follow or are already connected with, ensuring a safer communication environment. Furthermore, sensitive content will not appear in the Explore and Reels sections, minimizing exposure to potentially harmful material.

The platform has also implemented a 'Hidden Words' feature, filtering out offensive language from comments and chat requests directed at teens. This move underscores Meta's commitment to creating a safer online space for younger users.

To promote healthy usage habits, teens will receive daily reminders to take breaks after 60 minutes of app usage. A sleep mode will silence notifications from 10 PM to 7 AM, automatically responding to private messages during these hours.

For parents, Meta offers oversight tools to track messaging interactions over the past week, set daily usage limits, and restrict app access during nighttime hours. These features provide parents with greater control over their children's online presence and interactions.

As the digital landscape continues to evolve, these enhancements reflect Meta's ongoing efforts to prioritize user safety, particularly for younger audiences. The introduction of teen accounts on Facebook and Messenger aligns with the company's broader strategy to foster a secure environment across its platforms.