Facebook Pushes Ahead with Instagram for Kids Launch Despite State Government Concerns

44 State Attorneys General Including New York Send Joint Letter
Facebook "Actively Cooperating with Authorities and Legislature"

[Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kwon Jae-hee] Facebook is facing controversy after announcing it will proceed with the launch of Instagram for children despite concerns expressed by state governments.

According to Bloomberg on the 10th (local time), attorneys general from 44 states, including New York, California, and Texas, sent a joint letter urging Facebook to halt its plan to launch Instagram exclusively for children under 12.

The attorneys general stated in the letter, "Children's use of social media (SNS) will negatively affect the emotional well-being of children who are less prepared to navigate the various challenges posed by the online environment," adding, "(Children's use of SNS) will fuel an atmosphere that encourages obsessions with appearance and acceptance of social status differences."

They further pointed out, "Historically, platforms have failed to protect children's safety and privacy."

In response, Facebook issued a statement expressing its intention to actively cooperate with authorities and legislators during the launch process of Instagram for children. It reiterated its plan to proceed with the launch despite concerns from the majority of state governments.

Facebook countered, "As all parents know well, children are exposed to the online environment whether adults want them to be or not," and added, "By providing parents with the ability to understand and control what their children are doing, we can actually protect children from risks."

Facebook also stated that it will discuss issues related to child safety, mental health, and privacy with experts in child development going forward. Additionally, it announced a policy not to display advertisements on Instagram for children.

Currently, Instagram, operated by Facebook, is only available to users aged 13 and older. However, many children lie about their age to sign up, and there are numerous crimes targeting these users. Accordingly, Facebook has been pushing forward with plans to create a dedicated Instagram platform exclusively for children.

Civic and consumer groups have expressed negative views, arguing that Facebook's plan will only accelerate the onset of social media addiction.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.