Top prosecutors from 44 states have raised concerned over proposed plans from Facebook to launch a “kids” version of Instagram.
The social media platform has confirmed plans for the development of a photo-sharing service for users under the age of 13. Facebook currently bans anyone under that age from using their products, but has said that many children lie about their age to get access.
In their letter, the group of state attorney generals warned Mark Zuckerberg that the proposed platform could harm youngsters, citing concerns about the impact of social media on children.
The warning comes from state officials, including the top prosecutors from Texas, New York and California, who claim that social media leads children to worry about their personal appearance and social status.
According to The Independent, the letter stated: “Use of social media can be detrimental to the health and well-being of children, who are not equipped to navigate the challenges of having a social media account.”
Zuckerberg spoke at a congressional hearing in March about the plans, and argued that social media was a good way for young people to connect with friends and family.
A Facebook official said the platform would work with lawmakers and regulators to ensure that the new plans were safe for practise. Facebook confirmed that the idea was still in development, and that it had agreed it would not contain advertising.
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