Most US states on Monday called on Facebook boss Mark Zuckerberg to drop plans to create a version of Instagram for those under 13, citing the mental health risks of younger people. “Research shows a correlation between the use of social networks and the increase in psychological distress and suicidal behavior among young people,” argue the attorneys general of 44 states in a letter to the founder of the Californian giant. They cite studies showing the harm caused by constant comparison with peers, such as eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia). They also mention the dangers of online bullying by other teens or adult criminals and ensure that children are not sufficiently versed in digital codes – what photos and messages can be posted online, who is likely to see them, the permanent nature of these contents, etc. “Social networks are not only powerful tools that can harm young people, this project could also make it easier for predators,” said New York State prosecutor Letitia James in a statement. “Facebook has a negative track record in terms of protecting the safety and privacy of children on its platform,” prosecutors continue. In mid-April, an international coalition of children’s rights professionals had already sent a letter to this effect to Mark Zuckerberg. “While collecting valuable family data and retaining a new generation of Instagram users is arguably good for Facebook’s bottom line, it is likely to increase Instagram use by young children who are particularly vulnerable to functions of the platform promoting manipulation and exploitation, “said the CCFC, a collective which campaigns against marketing targeting children. Instagram currently requires a minimum legal age of 13 to join, as do Snapchat and TikTok. “We have just started exploring a version of Instagram for younger teens,” Facebook spokesperson Stephanie Otway confirmed in April. “The reality is that children are already online,” she remarked, before specifying that there would be no advertising in this application, and that the security and respect for the privacy of young people users would be the “priority”. The app, which has more than a billion users worldwide, recently showcased technology to prevent children under 13 from creating an account and to block adults who try to contact children they don’t. not know.
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