What are Instagram Teen Accounts?

Instagram now automatically places under-18 accounts into Teen Accounts with built-in protections. These include private profiles by default, restricted messaging from non-followers, sensitive content filters, and time reminders. Parents can link to their child's Teen Account for additional oversight.

Can strangers contact my child on Instagram?

With a Teen Account, message requests from people your child does not follow are automatically restricted. However, if your child accepts a follow request from a stranger, that person can then message them directly. Regularly discuss the importance of only accepting requests from people they know in real life.

What should I do if there is a problem on this app?

Use the app's in-app report and block tools first — this is usually the fastest way to remove content or restrict an account. If a child is in immediate danger, call 999. For non-emergency police matters, call 101. The NSPCC helpline (0808 800 5000) and Childline (0800 1111) are free and confidential. For a UK reporting decision tree, see /reporting and /tools/reporting-route-finder.

Instagram Safety Guide for Parents

How to protect your child on Instagram with privacy settings, supervision tools, and practical advice for parents.

Official age

13+

We recommend

14+

Developer

Meta Platforms

Risks

Direct messaging

Live streaming

Overview

Instagram is a photo and video sharing platform owned by Meta. Users share posts, Stories, Reels, and can message each other directly. The platform places considerable emphasis on appearance and popularity metrics such as likes and follower counts, which can affect young people's self-esteem and body image.

How children use it

Teenagers use Instagram to share photos and short videos, browse content from influencers and friends, and communicate through direct messages and group chats. Reels offer a TikTok-style scrolling experience. Many young people curate their profiles carefully and can become preoccupied with likes and comments.

Main risks

cyberbullying privacy oversharing harmful content social media safety

Recommended privacy settings

Private Account

Location: Settings → Account Privacy → Private Account

Set to: On

Only approved followers can see your child's posts and Stories. Essential for keeping their content out of public view.

Message Controls

Location: Settings → Messages and Story Replies → Message Controls

Set to: Only people you follow

Controls who can send your child direct messages and prevents unsolicited contact from strangers.

Sensitive Content Control

Location: Settings → Content Preferences → Sensitive Content Control

Set to: Less

Reduces the amount of potentially upsetting or mature content shown in Explore and Reels.

Parental Supervision

Location: Settings → Supervision → Set Up Supervision

Set to: Linked to parent account

Allows you to see time spent, set daily limits, view followers and following lists, and receive notifications about reported content.

Parent actions

essential

Ensure your child has a Teen Account with a private profile and link your account via Parental Supervision

Time: 10 minutes

essential

Have an open conversation about body image, comparison, and the curated nature of social media content

Time: 20 minutes

recommended

Review your child's follower and following lists periodically to check they only connect with people they know

Time: 10 minutes monthly

Related app guides

tiktok snapchat facebook messenger

If you need to report this

In immediate danger: call 999. For non-emergency police matters, call 101.

Concerned about a child but it's not an emergency? NSPCC helpline 0808 800 5000. Childline for young people 0800 1111.

See all UK reporting pathways

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Resources

Safety Topic

Cyberbullying

Safety Topic

Social Media Safety

App Guide

TikTok Safety Guide

Last reviewed: 2026-03-15

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