ToplineA group of over 40 attorneys general published a letter to Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg Monday asking him to abandon plans to create a version of Instagram for children under 13, citing concerns about cyber bullying, sexual grooming and the general impact of social media on young people’s mental health. The attorneys general are asking the billionaire CEO of Facebook to abandon plans for a version of ... [+] Instagram for children. Responding to the concerns outlined in the letter, Facebook emphasized in a statement to Forbes it has “just started exploring a version of Instagram for kids” and agreed that “any experience we develop must prioritize their safety and privacy.”Crucial Quote“We will consult with experts in child development, child safety, mental health, and privacy advocates to inform it,” a spokesperson for the company said. “In addition, we commit today to not showing ads in any Instagram experience we develop for people under the age of 13.”Chief Critic“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,” read the letter. Monday’s letter isn’t the only pushback stirred by the alternate Instagram proposal.

Source: Forbes May 10, 2021 15:15 UTC