Instagram’s new system for labeling content aimed at teenagers, similar to movie ratings, is facing a legal challenge. The Motion Picture Association argues the feature could confuse users into believing it adheres to established movie rating guidelines.
Instagram introduced new safety features for teenagers on October 14th. These features automatically set accounts for users under 18 to a more restrictive mode, limiting their exposure to potentially inappropriate content. Meta, Instagram’s parent company, explained that the system is similar to the PG-13 rating used in movies, and allows parents to adjust the settings if they choose.
That was enough to set off the MPA.
After the announcement, the film industry group strongly criticized Instagram, stating that Meta didn’t consult with them and the claim that the feature would only be used for PG-13 content was false.
The MPA stated they support protecting children from unsuitable online content. However, claims that Instagram’s new tool will use, or is connected to, the PG-13 movie rating system are false.
The criticism has grown stronger, and the Motion Picture Association has now sent Instagram a legal notice demanding they stop making what the MPA calls ‘false and misleading’ statements.
The MPA stated in a letter that Meta’s actions could mislead people into thinking content on teen feeds meets the same standards as PG-13 movies, potentially damaging decades of work building public trust in their rating system.
Meta says its accounts for teens will follow guidelines similar to the PG-13 movie rating system, but this could actually damage public trust in those ratings.
Instagram strikes back as the MPA sends cease and desist over PG-13 rating
Meta is disputing recent claims. According to The Verge, the company states it never implied the feature was approved by the MPA and made it clear there’s no official connection to the organization.
Meta has always made it clear that its teen accounts aren’t officially rated or approved by the MPA, and they’ve specifically said so.
Instagram is cracking down on posts with harsh language, dangerous stunts, and content that could promote risky activities, like those involving marijuana. These new rules add to existing prohibitions against sexually explicit material, violent content, and ads for adult products.
The PG-13 rating permits some strong language and deals with more adult topics, though it’s often been debated. One example of this strictness is the MPA’s rule allowing only a single use of the expletive ‘f-bomb’ in any PG-13 rated film.
Okay, so this whole thing with age ratings for movies and shows? It doesn’t look like it’s going to be settled anytime soon. Meta’s now saying they want to do something similar on Facebook, and honestly, it seems like the MPA is ready to fight to keep things the way they are. It’s shaping up to be a real battle!
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2025-11-05 20:51