Instagram Kids represents a real threat, according to over 40 state attorneys general in the U.S. They signed a letter to pressure Mark Zuckerberg stop the project.
In the letter, they say that “Facebook has historically failed to protect the welfare of children on its platforms.”
“Abandon launch of Instagram Kids”
The National Association published a letter in which the signees say that social media exploits user’s fear of missing out (FOMO). According to the state attorneys, using social media can affect children’s health and well-being. They emphasize that this happens especially if they are not prepared for the challenges.
The general attorneys believe that this can lead to low self-esteem. As children do not completely understand the significance of privacy, they may also have problems in the future.
The group said that “they are simply too young to navigate the complexities of what they encounter online.” This includes inappropriate content and online relationships with others. This also includes predators, who can easily be “invisible”, using the anonymity of the internet.
Facebook did not answer
Facebook talked about its Instagram Kids in March, and this didn’t surprise anyone. At that time, it mentioned that it would be a safe Instagram for children under 13. Still, some lawmakers expressed their concern last month and raised some questions.
Now, the signees “urge Facebook to abandon its plans to launch this new platform.” They warn that according to reports, in 2020, Facebook and Instagram reported 20 million child sexual abuse images.
Still, Facebook did not come with an answer regarding the new request.
In order to keep our children safe, we as parents should take any necessary steps. One of them is to have a parental control app in place. We strongly recommend Bit Guardian Parental Control, in order to make sure that no inappropriate content reaches your child’s phone.
