Instagram has implemented a new feature called “limits” that allows users to hide direct messages and comments from accounts that may be harassing them. This feature goes beyond the previous restrictions, now muting messages from anyone except those on the user’s close friends list. Originally designed to help creators deal with harassment campaigns, this feature is available to anyone facing unwanted messages and comments from bullies and other negative actors.
How Limits Work
When setting limits on interactions, users will only see messages, tags, and mentions from individuals on their close friends list. Those not on the list will still be able to interact with posts, but the user will not see these interactions. Additionally, the accounts being limited will not be notified that their content has been hidden. Users have the option to view or ignore the limited comments and messages. The limits can be set for up to four weeks and can be extended as needed.
To enable limits on Instagram, users can access their profile, tap on the hamburger menu in the top-right corner, and select “Limited interactions.” From there, they can choose to set limits for accounts that are not following them, recent followers, or everyone except their close friends. Instagram has also enhanced its restrict feature, which now allows users to prevent others from tagging or mentioning them in addition to hiding their comments.
These new features come at a time when Instagram is facing increased scrutiny from the US government regarding the safety of its young users. In response, Meta, Instagram’s parent company, has introduced measures to protect minors, such as preventing adults from messaging minors by default. Additionally, the company has taken steps to hide content related to suicide and eating disorders from teenage users on both Instagram and Facebook.
Instagram’s expansion of limits and other safety features provide users with more control over their interactions on the platform. These measures aim to create a safer and more supportive environment, especially for vulnerable users such as minors. However, ongoing efforts are needed to address the ongoing challenges of harassment and harmful content on social media platforms like Instagram.
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