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Instagram Adds Teen Safety Alerts

Instagram will begin notifying parents when teenagers repeatedly search for content related to self-harm or suicide within a short timeframe.

The feature will be available through the platform’s optional supervision settings, allowing guardians to receive alerts about concerning search patterns.

The update comes as several governments consider stricter measures to protect young users online, including potential restrictions on access to social media for minors.

The platform said the alerts build on existing safeguards that block harmful searches and redirect users to support resources.

The move reflects growing global pressure on digital platforms to strengthen safety mechanisms for younger audiences.

Zuckerberg Defends Instagram Policies in Court

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg testified in a Los Angeles trial, denying claims that Instagram intentionally targets children under 13.

The case centers on allegations that social media platforms harmed a user’s mental health during childhood. Lawyers presented internal company documents suggesting discussions around engaging younger audiences, while Zuckerberg maintained that Meta does not permit users below the minimum age requirement.

He acknowledged past internal conversations about creating safer versions of services for younger users but stated such plans were never implemented.

The lawsuit forms part of a broader wave of legal challenges facing major technology companies over their impact on young users’ wellbeing.

Meta has argued that its platforms include safety measures and that verifying user age remains a broader industry challenge.

The trial could influence future legal debates around platform responsibility and digital product design.

FTC Appeals Ruling in Meta Antitrust Case Over Instagram, WhatsApp Deals

The U.S. Federal Trade Commission has appealed a court ruling that dismissed its antitrust case against Meta Platforms, seeking to revive claims that the company illegally built monopoly power by acquiring Instagram and WhatsApp. The FTC said its position remains unchanged despite last year’s dismissal.

The agency argues that Meta’s purchases of Instagram in 2012 and WhatsApp in 2014 harmed competition by eliminating emerging rivals. It has asked the courts to reconsider forcing a potential breakup or divestment of the platforms. Meta was sued in 2020, years after regulators initially approved the deals.

U.S. District Judge James Boasberg ruled in November that Meta does not currently hold a monopoly, citing strong competition from platforms such as TikTok. Meta said the decision correctly reflects the competitive landscape and said it will continue investing and innovating in the United States.