Motion Picture Association Urges Meta to Halt PG-13 Labeling for Instagram Teen Content

The Motion Picture Association (MPA) has formally requested that Meta Platforms cease its practice of referring to content shown to teen accounts on Instagram as “guided by PG-13 ratings.” The MPA argues that this characterization is misleading and could undermine trust in the movie rating system that has been in place for nearly six decades.

In a cease-and-desist letter sent to Meta, the MPA’s legal representatives emphasized the need for the tech giant to “immediately and permanently disassociate its Teen Accounts and AI tools from the MPA’s rating system.” This request follows Instagram’s announcement last month that content accessible to teen accounts would default to PG-13 ratings. The MPA stated that it was not consulted by Meta prior to this decision.

According to the MPA, claims by Meta that its Teen Accounts will be “guided by” PG-13 ratings are “false and highly misleading.” The association’s film rating system, ranging from G to NC-17, involves a careful evaluation process conducted by parents who assess whole films to determine appropriate ratings.

“Meta’s attempts to restrict teen content literally cannot be ‘guided by’ or ‘aligned with’ the MPA’s PG-13 movie rating because Meta does not follow this curated process,” the letter asserts. Instead, the MPA charges that Meta’s content restrictions rely on artificial intelligence and automated technology, rather than the thorough review process utilized by the MPA.

In response, Meta stated that its updated policies for teen content aim to align more closely with established PG-13 movie standards, a move intended to provide clarity for parents regarding what their teenagers encounter on Instagram. A spokesperson for the company noted, “We know social media isn’t the same as movies, but we made this change to support parents, and we hope to work with the MPA to continue bringing families this clarity.”

Meta emphasized that it never intended to imply a partnership with the MPA or suggest that Instagram content had been rated by the association. The situation highlights ongoing discussions about how social media platforms categorize and regulate content viewed by younger audiences, as well as the responsibilities they bear in ensuring age-appropriate access.

As the debate unfolds, the MPA’s concerns reflect broader issues regarding content moderation and the potential impact on young users. The outcome may influence how major digital platforms approach content ratings and parental guidance in the future.