Story perspectives

FTC's Data Collection Decision Sparks Child Safety Concerns

2/28/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) allowed companies to collect children's data for age verification, raising privacy concerns.
Experts warn that many children spend excessive time online, fueling anxiety and depression.
Efforts to restrict children's access to these platforms are complicated by their ability to bypass restrictions.
Instagram plans to alert parents about self-harm searches, but experts say that without government regulation, companies will prioritize profit over user safety.

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Story summary

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) allowed companies to collect children's data for age verification, raising privacy concerns.
Experts warn that many children spend excessive time online, fueling anxiety and depression.
Efforts to restrict children's access to these platforms are complicated by their ability to bypass restrictions.
Instagram plans to alert parents about self-harm searches, but experts say that without government regulation, companies will prioritize profit over user safety.