Facebook continued to face blowback this week for its proposed “Instagram for Kids” platform — this time, from more than 40 attorneys general from U.S. states and territories. The massive group of lawmakers wrote a letter to Facebook expressing many of the same concerns that child safety advocates have already raised, including the potential mental health and privacy risks the platform could pose.

“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,” the lawmakers’ letter said. “Further, Facebook has historically failed to protect the welfare of children on its platforms.”

In response, Facebook said that it understands its responsibility to protect the privacy of children, and that it will commit to working with experts to ensure that happens.

“We agree that any experience we develop must prioritize their safety and privacy, and we will consult with experts in child development, child safety and mental health, and privacy advocates to inform it. We also look forward to working with legislators and regulators, including the nation’s attorneys general,” a Facebook spokesperson said.

Of course, no matter what steps Facebook says it will take to protect kids, many users are never going to trust the company — and probably with good reason.

Recommended Resources

The Choice of Tech Experts Worldwide. Try 90 days free of Bitdefender and experience the highest level of digital safety.

Surf the web truly incognito. Try Bitdefender Premium VPN, the ultra-fast VPN that keeps your online identity and activities safe from hackers, ISPs and snoops.

System Mechanic 14 – Make your computer run like new. Winner of 200+ Editor’s Choice awards!