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Leveling up privacy
Instagram has quietly introduced a subtle yet potentially significant feature – the option to prevent profile visitors from expanding your profile image. While this might seem trivial to some, for others, it could be a notable enhancement to privacy settings.
How it Works
Step 1: Open the Instagram app and navigate to your profile.
Step 2: Tap on the “Edit Profile” button.
Step 3: Within the profile settings, locate and tap on “Profile Privacy.”
Step 4: Toggle on the “Private Account” option. This setting ensures that your profile and posts are visible only to approved followers.
Step 5: Additionally, for added privacy, set your profile picture visibility to “Only Followers” in the “Story Controls” section.
Beyond privacy
The functionality might extend beyond just privacy concerns. It could deter impersonators who often steal profile images for dubious purposes. By restricting the expanded view, the platform aims to make it harder for perpetrators to copy high-resolution profile pictures. Even if they manage to snatch a smaller version, the pixelation could serve as a deterrent to impersonation.
Customizing your Instagram
The app added the capability for expanded profile images last year, a feature many users might not be aware of. For those who prefer more control over their Instagram experience, this new privacy update offers a valuable customization option. Whether you’re safeguarding against unwanted attention or potential impersonation, this discreet addition aligns with Instagram’s ongoing efforts to enhance user privacy and control.
Other privacy measures
The update comes alongside existing privacy features on Instagram. Users can already make their profile and posts visible only to approved followers by setting their account to “Private.” Additionally, the “Story Controls” section allows further customization by making the profile picture less visible, limiting its accessibility to a select audience.
In essence, Instagram’s latest privacy tweak adds another layer of control for users, empowering them to curate their online presence according to their preferences and comfort levels.
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