Instagram has recently defended its new features aimed at protecting teens from sextortion attempts, following backlash that these measures do not go far enough. Parent company Meta announced that the tools include preventing screenshots and screen recordings of disappearing images and videos, framing them as part of ongoing efforts to combat criminals who manipulate young users into sharing intimate content. The National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) welcomed these changes as a “step in the right direction,” but experts argue that stronger and more proactive measures are urgently needed.
Arturo Béjar, a former Meta employee and whistleblower, raised concerns about the platform’s ability to effectively safeguard young users. He suggested that Instagram could implement simpler solutions, such as making it easier for teens to flag suspicious accounts that might be impersonating their peers. “By the time they need to report sextortion, the damage is already done,” Béjar stated, underscoring the need for preventive features rather than reactive ones. In response, Meta maintains that its tools, developed with user feedback, offer clear options for reporting inappropriate behavior, including a prioritization system for unwanted nude images.
While the NSPCC acknowledged the potential benefits of Instagram’s new features, Richard Collard, the organization’s associate head of child safety online policy, questioned why similar protections have not been extended to other Meta platforms, such as WhatsApp, where grooming and sextortion also occur frequently. Meanwhile, the UK’s communications watchdog, Ofcom, has warned social media companies that they will face fines if they fail to ensure the safety of children on their platforms. As the debate continues, the pressure is mounting on Meta to enhance its protective measures for vulnerable users amid escalating online threats.
