Instagram is a platform that has continuously been updating its privacy policies over the years. It works to create a space that is comfortable and safe for its users by designing features that protect user interests. Instagram has now come forward with a few new updates that improve on already existing measures placed by the platform. The new updates focus on making blocking more effective, expanding the coverage of hidden words and nudges to prevent hurtful comments and message requests.
Three updates to protect Instagram users from abuse
Block inappropriate accounts effectively
The platform aims to make it as hard as possible for an account you have blocked to contact you through any other handle. While a feature already exists that will let users block new accounts made by the same user, the new update will make it possible for users to block accounts that already exist. According to Instagram. “Based on initial test results from this new change, we expect that four million fewer accounts will need to be blocked every week since these accounts will now be blocked automatically.”
Expanding Hidden Words
The Hidden Words feature was released last year and has helped individuals automatically filter hateful and offensive content. This feature allows creators to maintain a healthy and safe space for themselves on their profile. Filtering out hateful comments is a great way to do this. Instagram is working to turn on Hidden Words for creator accounts automatically. However, they can be turned on or off according to user preference. The Hidden Words feature will be extended to Story replies, and message requests. The feature will also expand to support new languages including Farsi, Turkish, Russian, Bengali, Marathi, Telugu and Tamil.
Nudging users in comments and DMs
Nudges on Instagram encourage users to be more respectful on the platform. It decreases the number of hurtful comments that are made on the platform. The new update will remind users to be more kind when they respond in comments. Nudges are available on Instagram apps that are in English, Portuguese, Spanish, French, Chinese or Arabic.
Nudges will also be sent when users are messaging creators on the platform. This protects the mental and emotional health of influencers on the platform.
The well-being of social media creators and users is of immense importance to Instagram. This has been made clear with the many features they have been developing to create a safe space on their platform.
Stay tuned to all the latest news by subscribing to ITP Live’s newsletter below.