Instagram Teen Accounts: What They Restrict
Instagram places users it knows to be under 18 into Teen Accounts, which come with built-in protections: the account is private by default, messaging from adults they do not follow is restricted, sensitive content controls are set to the most limited level, and there are time-management prompts including a sleep mode that silences notifications overnight.
Published: 2026-01-15
What Changed
Instagram places users it knows to be under 18 into Teen Accounts, which come with built-in protections: the account is private by default, messaging from adults they do not follow is restricted, sensitive content controls are set to the most limited level, and there are time-management prompts including a sleep mode that silences notifications overnight. Younger teens cannot simply switch these protections off themselves — loosening key settings requires a parent's involvement through Instagram supervision in Family Centre. As always, the protections rely on the age Instagram has for the account.
What to Review
- •Check that your teen's account has their real date of birth registered.
Parent Actions
- 1Set up supervision through Instagram's Family Centre so you can see and approve changes to their settings, and confirm the account shows as private with sensitive content controls at the most restrictive level.
Full app guide
View the complete Instagram safety guide
This is practical educational content to support families. For case-specific concerns about a child's safety, contact the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000 or your local safeguarding team.
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Last reviewed: 2026-03-15