Instagram Begins Requiring Birthdays for All New Users

The Facebook-owned company denied that advertising spurred the policy change

Instagram now requires all people signing up for a new account to provide their birthdate, and anyone under 13 will be prohibited from starting an account.

The Facebook-owned social media network’s terms of use, amended Wednesday, now requires new members to be at least 13 years old to have accounts in most countries. But the company acknowledged that many teens, particularly those on the younger side, may not have access to easy ways to prove their age, such as driver’s licenses, and it will not require existing users to furnish such proof unless its algorithm detects that they may be underage.

Instagram

AW+

WORK SMARTER - LEARN, GROW AND BE INSPIRED.

Spring Special

Save 30% Off an ADWEEK Subscription Today!

View Your Options

Already a member? Sign in