Well, these big new changes are being put in place to help keep its younger audience safe when using the app. Instagram says that this information will allow it to create new safety features for young people, and help ensure it provides the right experiences to the right age group.
If you started using Instagram within the last year, you’ll have already handed over your date of birth during the account set-up process. The latest change – and tough new measures for those who don’t comply – is designed to get those with older accounts to update their profile with their date of birth.
“We’ve been clear that we want to do more to create safer, more private experiences for young people,” Instagram explained. “To do that we need to know how old everybody is on Instagram, so we’ve started asking people to share their birthday with us if they haven’t shared it previously.”
Along with new features, the change is also aimed at preventing adults from sending messages to people under 18 who don’t follow them.