Meta introduces restricted Teen Accounts to Facebook and Messenger
TechCrunchAPR 10
Meta Expands Teen Safety Controls Across Platforms
Above: The Meta Platforms Inc. logo is displayed on a monitor. Image copyright: Igor Golovniov/Contributor/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
These expanded safety features demonstrate Meta's commitment to protecting young users while maintaining engagement. So far, 94% of parents have reported these restrictions as helpful and the company is continuing to actively respond to concerns about online safety.
Narrative B
The timing of these changes appears reactive rather than proactive, as they come only after intense regulatory scrutiny and legal pressure. Given the weak age verification system, they also do little to tackle the core risks faced by young users. Instead, they foster a false sense of security that encourages complacency rather than meaningful protection.