Instagram Introduces Enhanced Safety Features: Here’s What You Need to Know

Instagram has recently expanded its “limits” feature, allowing users to hide messages and comments from accounts that may be harassing them. This feature goes beyond just hiding content from recent followers or non-followers, as it now enables users to mute incoming messages from everyone except those on their close friends list.

Originally designed to help creators deal with harassment campaigns, the limits feature is now available to all users facing unwanted messages from bullies and other harmful individuals. By limiting interactions to close friends only, users will only see messages, tags, and mentions from those on their list, while being able to continue interacting with their posts as usual.

Enabling and Managing Limits

To activate the limits feature, users can simply access their profile, tap on the hamburger menu at the top-right corner of the screen, and select “Limited interactions.” From there, they can choose to limit accounts that aren’t following them, recent followers, or everyone except close friends. These limits can be set for up to four weeks and extended if needed.

Further Enhancements to Safety Measures

In addition to the limits feature, Instagram has also improved its restrict functionality, now allowing users to prevent others from tagging or mentioning them, along with hiding their comments. These updates come amidst increased scrutiny from the US government regarding the safety of young users on the platform.

As the parent company of Instagram, Meta has implemented measures to protect minors on its platforms. Earlier this year, Meta introduced a feature that restricts adults from messaging minors by default on Instagram and Facebook. Moreover, the company has taken steps to hide sensitive content related to suicide and eating disorders from teenage users.

Overall, Instagram’s new safety features aim to provide users with more control over their interactions and protect them from online harassment. By leveraging these tools, individuals can create a safer and more positive environment on the platform. It is essential for users to familiarize themselves with these features and utilize them effectively to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience on Instagram.