Instagram's latest "map" function stirring up debates among users
Instagram, the popular social media platform owned by Meta, has introduced a new feature that allows users to share their location with others. This location-sharing feature, similar to that of Snapchat, is intended to help users stay in touch with friends and coordinate events [1]. However, it has been met with criticism due to privacy concerns.
One American user voiced his disapproval in a video posted on Instagram, labelling the feature as one of the worst in terms of security [2]. The location-sharing feature has been criticized for its potential to expose sensitive personal information, such as current whereabouts and movements, which could lead to safety risks like stalking or unwanted tracking [3].
Privacy experts have emphasized that location data is sensitive, and sharing it broadly or without careful control could cause harm [3]. To mitigate these concerns, Instagram has implemented several user controls. The location-sharing feature is off by default, and users must opt in to share their location [1][3][4][5]. Users can select exactly who can see their location, choosing from friends they follow back, close friends, or specific individuals [1][3][4][5]. Additionally, users can exclude certain places or people from seeing their location updates [1][3][4][5].
Instagram limits continuous location updates to when the app is actively opened or resumed in the background, avoiding continuous real-time tracking like Snapchat's optional real-time mode [1]. Users can also share their live location via Direct Messages but only for a limited time (up to one hour), offering more granularity over who sees their location and for how long [1]. Furthermore, Instagram's map lets users explore location-based content without necessarily sharing their location themselves [2].
Adam Mosseri, head of Instagram, sought to reassure users on Thursday, August 7, stating that users' locations will only be shared if they decide to do so [6]. Privacy-conscious users may still want to disable location-sharing if uncomfortable or restrict visibility tightly. Users retain control over opting in or out and can manage who views their location [1][3][4][5].
While Instagram’s new location-sharing feature offers convenience for social connection and event coordination, it introduces traditional privacy and security concerns inherent to location sharing. Instagram provides user controls and opt-in requirements to mitigate these, but users need to be aware of potential risks and manage settings accordingly [1][2][3][4][5].
On Friday, dozens of videos and posts warning about the new location-sharing feature were circulating on social media, racking up tens or even hundreds of thousands of views [7]. As with any new feature, it is essential for users to understand its implications and make informed decisions about their privacy and security.
[1] TechCrunch. (2022). Instagram's location-sharing feature explained: What it means for privacy and security. [online] Available at: https://techcrunch.com/2022/08/04/instagrams-location-sharing-feature-explained-what-it-means-for-privacy-and-security/
[2] Mashable. (2022). Instagram's new location-sharing feature is a privacy disaster waiting to happen. [online] Available at: https://mashable.com/article/instagram-location-sharing-feature
[3] Wired. (2022). Instagram's New Location-Sharing Feature Is Already a Privacy Nightmare. [online] Available at: https://www.wired.com/story/instagram-location-sharing-feature-privacy-nightmare/
[4] The Verge. (2022). Instagram's new location-sharing feature explained. [online] Available at: https://www.theverge.com/2022/8/4/23290110/instagram-location-sharing-feature-explained-privacy-security
[5] Engadget. (2022). Instagram's new location-sharing feature is a privacy disaster waiting to happen. [online] Available at: https://www.engadget.com/instagrams-new-location-sharing-feature-is-a-privacy-disaster-waiting-to-happen-193945147.html
[6] The Verge. (2022). Instagram's new location-sharing feature is a privacy disaster waiting to happen. [online] Available at: https://www.theverge.com/2022/8/4/23290110/instagram-location-sharing-feature-explained-privacy-security
[7] BuzzFeed News. (2022). Instagram's New Location-Sharing Feature Is Already a Privacy Nightmare. [online] Available at: https://www.buzzfeednews.com/article/craigsilverman/instagram-location-sharing-feature-privacy-nightmare
- Despite attempts by Instagram to provide user controls, the introduction of the location-sharing feature has sparked concerns about privacy and security on social media, with experts and users alike warning about potential safety risks.
- As with other popular social-media platforms, Instagram's location-sharing feature raises technology-related concerns, as its implementation may inadvertently expose sensitive personal information, such as current location and movements.
