INSTAGRAM

INSTAGRAM

MINIMUM AGE: 13+
 
WHAT IS IT?
Post pictures and videos and use hashtags to share experiences, thoughts or memories. Follow your friends, family, and celebrities. Instagram allows live streaming and stories, as well as direct messaging. 

WHAT WE SAY:
Treat with caution.

• Access to Inappropriate content - Even with age restrictions in place, young people might still come across posts with violent content, nudity, or other adult themes.
• Direct Messaging - Even if your child’s profile is private, strangers can still reach out and initiate messaging. These messages can range from harmful or harassing in nature to making inappropriate or even illegal requests.  
• Public Sharing Risks - Unless privacy settings are adjusted, personal photos and information are visible to anyone.
• Negative impacts on physical and mental wellbeing- Emphasis on likes, followers, and image perfection can impact self-esteem and body image. 
• Influencer Culture - ‘Influencers’ build large followings on Instagram by posting trendy content and often tailoring their appearance to fit “fashionable ideals”. Influencer culture can produce damaging thoughts in children, potentially leading some children to believe that in order to be popular on Instagram, they have to look and act a certain way.  

SAFETY TIPS TO CONSIDER:

• Learn how to set your child's account to a 'Private Account' by visiting Instagram's guidance on privacy settings. 
• People you don’t know can comment on posts, message you or follow you - ask children and young people to tell you if anything goes wrong. 
• ​Adding a location to a picture drops a pin on a map - personal information could be shared. 
• Explain the risks associated with streaming a live video to an unknown audience - personal information could be shared.
• ​Live videos can receive responses which can mean that inappropriate content can be sent - ask children and young people to tell you if anything goes wrong​.
  
• Also make sure they use their device in a room whereby adults at home are present.
• Have open discussions with children and young people about the topics associated with online use - bullying, grooming, sexual and criminal exploitation, body image, as well as accessing support and how to report. 

FURTHER SUPPORT:
For parents/ carers If you're worried about your child or need support call NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000. 

If you discover criminal content when online then report it directly to the police or the Internet Watch Foundation. 

If you're worried about online grooming or sexual behaviour online then report directly to the police or contact CEOP. 

For Children & young people if they're worried or want to talk, encourage them to contact Childline Online or call 0800 1111. 

Check out our Resource Centre for further information and useful online safety tips.

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