ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and Meta have launched Instagram “Teen Accounts” to enhance online safety for users below the age of 16 by filtering sensitive content, the telecom regulator said on Wednesday. 

The safety feature entails automatically placing users under the age of 16 into Teen Accounts, restricting unwanted contact and filtering sensitive content while allowing “safe digital exploration,” the PTA said in a press release. 

It said the latest initiative reflects PTA’s “proactive engagement” with digital platforms to advance child safety, digital literacy and responsible online behavior across Pakistan. Pakistani teenagers, especially girls, have reported online harassment such as cyberbullying, stalking and various forms of exploitation. 

“The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), in collaboration with Meta, inaugurated Instagram’s new safety feature “Teen Accounts” designed to enhance online protection for young users in Pakistan,” the PTA said. 

It said the launch event featured awareness sessions and live demonstrations on online safety tools, complaint mechanisms and best practices to promote the digital well-being of young users.

The event was attended by representatives from Meta, UNICEF/NCRC, and key child protection stakeholders. 

“PTA’s commitment to building a safer digital ecosystem, emphasizing that the launch of Teen Accounts marks a major step toward protecting Pakistan’s youth online,” PTA Chairman Maj. Gen. Hafeez ur Rehman said. 

Dr. Priyanka Bhalla, the head of safety policy for South Asia at Meta, said the company’s global safety initiatives empower millions of teenagers worldwide, including in Pakistan, to enjoy a secure online experience.