Instagram launches a powerful tool to safeguard teenagers from online predators
Meta Introduces New Tool to Combat Financial Sextortion
Meta recently announced a new tool aimed at combating the rising threat of “financial sextortion” online. This dangerous practice involves scammers requesting nude photos from individuals and then blackmailing them with threats of publicizing these images unless a ransom is paid. The FBI has reported a disturbing trend of suicides among male victims aged between 14 and 17 due to financial sextortion.
Preventing Abuse of Intimate Images
Although Meta already identifies and removes accounts involved in sextortion, the company has taken further steps to prevent the misuse of intimate images. By implementing new technology, Meta aims to identify potential sextortionists and protect underage users from such exploitation. One key feature soon to be introduced is “nudity protection” for Instagram direct messages, which will automatically blur nude photos sent and received by users under 18.
Commitment to Protecting Minors
John Shehan, Senior Vice President of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, praised Meta’s efforts to safeguard minors on their platform. By enhancing security measures and encouraging increased reporting of online exploitation, Meta is taking a proactive stance in combating child trafficking and other dangers faced by vulnerable teenagers on social media.
