Instagram Map Feature May Pose a Privacy Risk - Guidance on Disabling It
In a bid to rival social media competitor Snapchat, Instagram has recently introduced a new Map feature that allows users to share their location with a select group of followers. However, this new addition has raised concerns among privacy experts and users alike, due to potential exposure of real-time physical location data and related safety risks.
The Map feature works in a way that is similar to Snapchat's location-sharing service. When a user tags a location in an Instagram story, post, or reel using the location sticker, the content will appear on the map for 24 hours. However, it's important to note that Instagram Map is off by default, and a user's live location is never shared unless they choose to turn it on.
If you're a parent concerned about your teen's location sharing experience on Instagram, you can set up controls to manage this feature. Parents can decide whether their teen has access to location sharing on the Map and see who their teen is sharing their location with. To disable Instagram Map, go to Messages > Map > Settings > No one, and select Update at the bottom to save changes.
Privacy experts and users have expressed worries that friends or followers could see precise real-time locations, potentially compromising users’ safety or privacy. There are also usability and transparency issues around how location-sharing controls work, making it unclear to some users how to fully disable or manage location sharing.
Instagram has emphasised that location sharing is opt-in and off by default, and only people a user follows back or a custom private list can see their location. The tech giant, Meta, which owns Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp, has also confirmed that the live location is only visible to people you follow back or a custom private list you select, and multiple layers of consent are required before sharing location.
If you care about your privacy, it's probably a good idea to keep Instagram Map turned off. To turn off location sharing, go to your Instagram profile and open the Instagram Map feature. Find the setting labeled something like "Share your location" or "Last Active Location." Toggle location sharing off or opt out of location sharing. Verify your location visibility settings to ensure only desired followers or no one can see your location.
It's also advisable to avoid adding location tags to Stories and Reels if you want full privacy. Instagram has stated you can turn off location sharing anytime, and it is off by default unless you explicitly opt in. However, given ongoing user concerns and confusion, reviewing all location-related settings carefully is advisable.
The Map feature on Instagram has faced criticism due to concerns about privacy and security. Concerns about the Map feature center around the potential for stalking and tracking by Meta, the tech giant that owns Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp. These concerns continue to grow, particularly in regards to privacy and security.
Despite these concerns, it's important to remember that the Instagram Map feature is currently only available in the U.S., and more global availability is expected to come soon. If a teen starts sharing their location on the Map, parents receive a notification, offering an opportunity for important conversations about safe sharing.
In summary, while the Instagram Map feature offers a fun way to share location with friends, it's crucial to be aware of the potential privacy risks and take steps to manage your location settings accordingly. By understanding how the feature works and taking the necessary precautions, you can enjoy the benefits of Instagram Map while protecting your privacy.
[1] TechCrunch. (2021). Instagram's new Map feature lets you share your location with friends. [online] Available at: https://techcrunch.com/2021/04/20/instagrams-new-map-feature-lets-you-share-your-location-with-friends/
[2] The Verge. (2021). Instagram's new Map feature lets you share your location with friends. [online] Available at: https://www.theverge.com/2021/4/20/22386326/instagram-map-location-sharing-feature-explained
[3] Wired. (2021). Instagram's New Map Feature Lets You Share Your Location with Friends. [online] Available at: https://www.wired.com/story/instagram-map-location-sharing-feature/
In the realm of social-media and technology, understanding how to use the new Instagram Map feature responsibly is crucial, but it's equally important to grasp how to turn off Instagram Map for privacy concerns. To categorize your location visibility, navigate to your Instagram profile, open the Instagram Map feature, and adjust the "Share your location" or "Last Active Location" settings accordingly. By doing so, you can ensure that your location remains private or visible only to desired followers.
