Instagram for kids? Dozens of US Attorneys General urge Facebook to scrap app plans


The AGs who sent the letter to Facebook on May 10 said that contrary to Zuckerberg’s statements, solid data and research have shown a link between young people’s use of social media and an increase in mental distress, self-injurious behaviour and suicidality. In addition, they charged that Instagram has been frequently flagged for increasing suicidal ideation, depression and body-image concerns in children. — Dreamtime/TNS

LOS ANGELES: Facebook’s plans to build a version of Instagram aimed at preteen kids is in the political crosshairs of more than 40 US state attorneys general – who are asking Mark Zuckerberg to mothball the idea.

“It appears that Facebook is not responding to a need, but instead creating one, as this platform appeals primarily to children who otherwise do not or would not have an Instagram account,” according to an open letter signed by attorneys general from 44 US states and territories, addressed to Facebook CEO Zuckerberg.

Get 30% off with our ads free Premium Plan!

Monthly Plan

RM13.90/month
RM9.73 only

Billed as RM9.73 for the 1st month then RM13.90 thereafters.

Annual Plan

RM12.33/month
RM8.63/month

Billed as RM103.60 for the 1st year then RM148 thereafters.

1 month

Free Trial

For new subscribers only


Cancel anytime. No ads. Auto-renewal. Unlimited access to the web and app. Personalised features. Members rewards.
Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!
   

Next In Tech News

'Who's next?': Misinformation and online threats after US CEO slaying
What is (or was) 'perks culture’?
South Korean team develops ‘Iron Man’ robot that helps paraplegics walk
TikTok's rise from fun app to US security concern
Jeff Bezos says most people should take more risks. Here’s the science that proves he’s right
Musk, president? Trump says 'not happening'
Bluesky finds with growth comes growing pains – and bots
How tech created a ‘recipe for loneliness’
How data shared in the cloud is aiding snow removal
Trump appoints Bo Hines to presidential council on digital assets

Others Also Read