Instagram Announces Two New Features To Combat Bullying

Instagram just announced two new features designed to combat bullying

“Online bullying is a complex issue,” Instagram said in a press release. “For years now, we have used artificial intelligence to detect bullying and other types of harmful content in comments, photos and videos. As our community grows, so does our investment in technology. This is especially crucial for teens since they are less likely to report online bullying even when they are the ones who experience it the most.”

The first new feature uses AI technology to alert users when their comment may be considered offensive. This serves two purposes; giving people a chance to reflect and undo or rewrite their comment and prevents the recipient from receiving the harmful comment notification.

The other feature called Restrict. It allows people to “restrict” a user, which makes comments on Instagram only visible to the commenter.

Young users are often reluctant to block, unfollow, or report their bully because fear it could escalate the situation, especially if they interact with their bully in real life. Instagram is hoping to help make it easier.

“You can choose to make a restricted person’s comments visible to others by approving their comments,” Instagram explained. “Restricted people won’t be able to see when you’re active on Instagram or when you’ve read their direct messages.”


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