Instagram is doubling down on its commitment to creating a safer online environment, particularly for its younger users who are often the most vulnerable to online bullying. Adam Mosseri, Head of Instagram, has announced new features designed to proactively address bullying and empower individuals to protect themselves on the platform. These updates reflect Instagram’s ongoing mission to connect people with what they love while ensuring a comfortable and secure space for self-expression. Recognizing the complexities of online interactions, Instagram is leveraging artificial intelligence and user-centric tools to lead the charge against online harassment. This announcement underscores the platform’s dedication to not just reacting to bullying, but actively preventing it and supporting those who are targeted.
Proactive Measures: AI-Powered Intervention for Offensive Comments
For years, Instagram has been utilizing artificial intelligence to detect and filter harmful content, including bullying, within comments, photos, and videos. As the platform expands, so does Instagram’s investment in cutting-edge technology to enhance community safety. This is especially critical for teenagers, who, despite being frequent targets, are often less likely to report instances of online bullying. Building upon these efforts, Instagram has recently introduced a new AI-driven feature that proactively alerts users when their comments are flagged as potentially offensive before they are posted.
This innovative intervention serves as a crucial moment for self-reflection. Users are given a chance to reconsider their words, revise their comment, and ultimately prevent the recipient from being subjected to hurtful notifications. Early trials of this feature have shown promising results, with many users choosing to “undo” their initial comment and share a more constructive or kinder message after being prompted to reflect. This proactive approach aims to foster a more positive and respectful online environment on Instagram, encouraging users to think twice about the potential impact of their words before they are shared.
Empowering Users: Introducing ‘Restrict’ for Enhanced Account Protection
While actively identifying and removing bullying content is paramount, Instagram also recognizes the importance of empowering its users to take control of their own experiences and stand up against online harassment. Feedback from younger users highlighted a significant challenge: the reluctance to block, unfollow, or report bullies due to fears of escalating real-life conflicts. These actions can also inadvertently make it harder for individuals to monitor the bully’s behavior and protect themselves effectively.
To address these concerns, Instagram is introducing a new feature called ‘Restrict’. This tool is designed to give users greater control over their Instagram experience without directly notifying the potential bully, thus mitigating the risk of escalation. Once a user restricts another account, comments from that restricted person will only be visible to them and the restricted user. The account owner retains full control and can choose to make a restricted person’s comments visible to the wider audience by manually approving them. Furthermore, restricted individuals will not be able to see when the account owner is active on Instagram or when they have read their direct messages, providing an added layer of privacy and control for the user.
Continuing the Commitment to a Safer Instagram
Creating a safe and supportive environment on Instagram remains a top priority. Instagram understands its responsibility in tackling online bullying and is committed to ongoing investment in understanding and addressing this complex issue. These new features are significant steps forward in Instagram’s broader strategy to combat online harassment and foster a more positive and inclusive online community. As Adam Mosseri states, this is just part of a longer journey, and Instagram is dedicated to continually evolving its tools and policies to better protect its users and lead the fight against online bullying in the online space. Instagram looks forward to sharing further updates on its progress and continued efforts to make Instagram a safer and more enjoyable platform for everyone.
