Instagram To Introduce Two Methods To Tackle Bullying And Negative Comments

Instagram has recently joined the fight against cyberbullying with the implementation of an artificial intelligence feature, which alerts users about insulting comments. Besides, the platform also begins to test a new method by allowing its users to set a limit towards those who are allowed to comment on their posts.

The innovative safety-focused characteristics were announced in a blog post called “Our Commitment to Lead the Fight Against Online Bullying” by Head of Instagram - Adam Mosseri. According to his statement, Instagram now has a plan to not only put an end to bullying on this platform but also to help the victims to stand up against the bully. The new function in both aforementioned areas is now being announced.

The first anti-bullying feature that helps to detect harmful comments has been introduced to the public. It is a chance for the users to rethink if they’re making any insulting comment to others before a comment notification is shown on the feed.

This acts as an intervention for the users to reconsider and protects the receivers from bullying comments. Through some early tests, the feature actually proves itself useful as there were some people undo their hurtful comments when they saw the alerts. Users will receive a line which goes “Are you sure you want to post this?” and an undo choice as well as more information if they choose the “Learn More” button.

The second anti-bullying feature that is about to be put into practice is a new approach to limit comments from others.

This change was formed based on the experiences of young people who seek to stand up and protect themselves yet scared to actually unfollow, block or report the bully as the situation, according to them, might get intensified. And these actions are also hard for them to keep an eye on the bully’s behavior.

That’s why the upcoming feature is a turning point. Because once a user restricts someone, the comments made by these accounts will then be visible only to them. A user can also allow others to see that person’s comments if they permit. And those who have been restricted will not see any status nor receive a read receipt for notification for their messages.