By Instagram has taken significant steps towards combating abuse, hate speech, and bullying on its platform. The latest update introduces two new features aimed at protecting users from offensive direct messages (DMs) and preventing users from reaching out via fresh accounts to continue abusive behavior.
Addressing Abusive Messages
The prevalence of abusive content and hate speech on social media platforms is a concerning issue. Instagram acknowledges the importance of creating a safer environment for its users and has introduced a tool to filter DM requests containing offensive words, phrases, and emojis. This tool, similar to the comment filter, automatically screens out inappropriate content from DM requests.
How Does the Tool Work?
Users can enable the tool from their settings, specifically under the ‘Hidden Words’ setting within ‘Privacy Settings.’ This feature focuses on filtering DM requests from users who are not followed by you, distinguishing them from messages in your regular DM inbox. Instagram has collaborated with anti-discrimination and anti-bullying organizations to compile a predefined list of offensive terms. Additionally, users can customize the list by adding their own words, phrases, or emojis to be filtered.
Handling Filtered Messages
Filtered messages, based on the custom and predefined list, will be directed to a separate folder named ‘hidden requests.’ The contents of these messages will be blurred in the folder until the user chooses to uncover them. This feature ensures that users have control over the content they are exposed to, empowering them to manage abusive messages effectively.
Ensuring Privacy
Instagram emphasizes that all message filtering occurs locally on the user’s device, ensuring privacy and security. The platform reassures users that their message content is not shared with Instagram servers unless they choose to report a message.
Preemptive Blocking of Unwanted Contacts
In addition to the abuse detection feature, Instagram is introducing a smarter way to block unwanted contacts. Users now have the option to preemptively block any new accounts created by a blocked user. This feature, set to be globally available in the coming weeks, aims to prevent persistent harassment from blocked users.
Continued Efforts Against Abuse
Instagram is actively working on improving its abuse-control tools. It plans to hide common misspellings of offensive words from manual comment filters, ensuring that even incorrectly spelled offensive words remain filtered out.
These initiatives reflect Instagram’s commitment to fostering a positive and safe community, protecting users from harmful content and behaviors on the platform.
