Instagram Develops Privacy Features To Protect User From Unsolicited Nude Photos

Instagram’s parent company, Meta, is working on protecting users from receiving unsolicited nude photos in their Direct Message (DMs).

An app researcher published an early image of the tool. Later, Meta, in a report confirmed the development of security features. 

Meta claimed the optional user controls are still in the early stages of development. These controls will help individuals protect themselves from nude photos and other unsolicited messages. The tech company equated these controls to its Hidden Words feature that automatically allows users to filter direct message requests comprising offensive content.

The tech company claimed the technology also bars Meta from viewing the actual messages or sharing with third parties. Meta spokesperson Liz Fernandez said in a report that they are working to ensure new features preserve users' privacy by giving them complete control over the messages they receive. The company will share more details about the security feature in the next few weeks as they are currently working on testing.

Why Instagram Develop Privacy Features?

Earlier, few research reports claim that women are being harassed online. The Center for Countering Digital Hate, a British Ngo published a report, which found that Instagram’s tools failed to take action on 90 percent of image-based abusive direct messages sent to high-profile women. The hidden words feature could not completely filter out swear words like b*tch and other offensive remarks. The Pew Research Center also published a report concluding that 33 percent of women under 35 have been sexually harassed online.

Instagram's new security feature came into existence as cyber-flashing could become a criminal offense in the UK if Parliament passes the Online Safety Bill. Cyber-flashing means sending unsolicited sexual messages to strangers online, especially to women. 

Cyber-flashing in the US is not a crime yet, but In 2019, Texas made cyber-flashing a misdemeanor. The debate has sparked whether to term it a crime or not. Few experts believe it can be equally psychologically damaging as sexual abuse. Few also feel cyber-flashing can be harmless.

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