Photo by Pinna on Pexels

Meta-owned Instagram is rolling out significant algorithmic updates designed to bolster child safety and prevent exploitation on the platform. These changes specifically target the connection between potential predators and children. Accounts managed by adults that predominantly showcase images of children will no longer be recommended to users deemed ‘potentially suspicious.’ This initiative follows criticism regarding Instagram’s previous algorithm, which allegedly facilitated networks of child predators. The platform will also conceal comments from suspect accounts and limit the ability of these individuals to discover adult-managed accounts featuring minors through the search function. Further enhancements include stricter messaging options, enhanced comment filtering to remove offensive content, and a combined reporting and blocking tool specifically for teenage users. These preventative steps underscore Instagram’s commitment to protecting vulnerable children from online harm and exploitation.