Instagram has made new additions to its Safety tools which
include updated user blocking, expansion of Hidden Words, and new prompts to
reduce offensive interactions.
The account blocking option on Instagram allows users to block unwanted accounts, as well as any subsequent accounts created by that user. Now, Instagram has made the option more advanced by providing the option to also block other accounts that a user may already have, hence further reducing the chances of interaction from the user.
Next, the Hidden Words tool that Instagram had previously launched is now being expanded to Creator Accounts, as well as Story replies. The option allows blocking of certain words within DMs and comments that users don’t wish to see on their profile. The selected words are then moved to filtered folders. Additionally, Instagram is making Hidden Words available in more languages as well.
To further limit negative interactions across its platform,
Instagram is improving its detection systems that prompt users when they are
about to post potentially offensive comments. In addition to that, prompts will
also be sent to users who engage in a comment thread where some negative
conversation is taking place.
These tools, although small, could help produce a significant impact altogether on the way people communicate on Instagram by reminding them to be mindful of the tone and language they use, and limiting potentially harmful attacks from problematic accounts.
