Facebook is preparing to launch a children’s version of Instagram for children under the age of 13. A group of 40 state attorneys unanimously wrote to Zuckerberg, hoping that he would give up this plan.
The letter wrote: “For children, using social media is harmful to the body and mind. They are not able to deal with the challenges of having a social media account.” The letter also said: “Looking back at history, the Facebook platform failed to protect children properly. ”
A Facebook press spokesperson claimed that the company has begun to discuss the launch of Instagram for children, and the company promised that there will be no ads for Instagram for children under 13 years of age.
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In addition, the children’s version of Instagram will put safety and privacy in the first place. It will also consult with experts in child development, child safety, and mental health, and cooperate with privacy advocates.
The Attorney General of Massachusetts, Maura Healey, stated on Twitter that Instagram for children is shamelessly exploiting and profiting from disadvantaged groups.
The open letter also stated that a report in 2019 proved that the Facebook Messenger Kids app opens the door to children aged 6-12. It has a flaw in its design and allows children to bypass restrictions and communicate with strangers whose parents do not allow them to contact.
