Facebook and Instagram are implementing their own gun regulations

Facebook outlined new rules today designed to stop users from illegally selling guns through its social networks. In a blog post, the social network giant said that it will limit posts on Facebook and Instagram discussing the sale of firearms to users over 18, warn people promoting the private sale of weapons to comply with relevant laws, and introduce “in-app education” on Instagram for those who search for gun promotions or sales. The new policies will be implemented and enforced in the next few weeks.

Social media giant Facebook and photo sharing subsidiary Instagram today announced new rules aimed at cutting down illegal gun sales on both platforms. The sites will delete reported posts offering to buy or sell guns without background checks — often an indicator that one or more of those involved in the transaction could be a minor or a felon seeking to evade the law. Facebook will also block those under 18 from viewing reported private gun sales posts from individual sellers and any pages used primarily for private firearm offers. The company’s policy changes come as a result of months of lobbying by gun control groups including Gabby Giffords’ Americans for Responsible Solutions, Michael Bloomberg’s Mayors Against Illegal Guns, Sandy Hook Promise and Moms Demand Action as well as the office of New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman.