Instagram Launches PG-13 Content Restrictions for Teen Users

Instagram has announced a major update to its teen safety measures, implementing content restrictions aligned with PG-13 movie ratings. All users under 18 will automatically be placed into the updated 13+ setting, with parental permission required to opt out. The move aims to provide parents with clearer context about what content their teens can access on the platform.

Expanded Content Filtering Across All Surfaces

The new restrictions expand Instagram’s existing guidelines by prohibiting sexually suggestive content, graphic images, adult material, posts with strong language, risky stunts, and content promoting harmful behaviors. The platform is blocking teens from following accounts sharing age-inappropriate material and expanding search term filtering for sensitive topics like alcohol and gore. Additionally, restricted content will be filtered from Explore, Reels, in-feed recommendations, and Stories—even when shared by followed accounts. Direct message links to inappropriate content will also be blocked.

AI-Powered Detection and Ongoing Improvements

Instagram’s updated AI experiences will also adhere to PG-13 guidelines by default, preventing age-inappropriate responses. The platform is introducing a new stricter parental setting for those wanting additional restrictions. Parents can now flag potentially inappropriate in-stream content, helping Instagram build better detection algorithms and identify emerging harmful trends.

The rollout begins today in the U.S., U.K., Australia, and Canada, with broader expansion to follow. This proactive approach comes as multiple countries—including France, Spain, Australia, and New Zealand—consider legislation restricting social media access for users under 15-16 years old. Instagram’s enhanced safeguards may help alleviate regulatory pressure while demonstrating the platform’s commitment to teen safety.