Instagram is introducing a new feature that alerts parents when teens repeatedly search for harmful topics in a short period of time. The move is part of the platform’s effort to improve safety for younger users.
The alert will be sent to parents who use Instagram’s parental supervision tools. It will notify them if their child searches for related terms multiple times within a limited timeframe. Parents will also get access to helpful resources to guide conversations with their teen.
Meta, Instagram’s parent company, said the alert system is designed to balance caution and privacy. The company explained that the feature may sometimes send alerts even when there is no serious risk, but experts support taking early precautions.
The company also confirmed that search results related to these topics are already restricted for younger users. Teens cannot view harmful content through Instagram search under its current safety rules.
The new alert feature will begin rolling out next week in the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada. Meta said it plans to expand the feature to more countries in the future.
Instagram said the goal is to help parents step in early and support their children if needed. The platform believes giving parents timely information can help prevent serious problems.
The company also revealed that similar alerts are being developed for its AI tools. These alerts will notify parents if teens use AI features in ways that may raise safety concerns.
Meta said more details about AI-related alerts will be shared later this year as development continues.
