Instagram's Map Feature Sparks Concern over User Location Disclosure through Sharing and Geotagging
In a recent development, Instagram has launched a new feature called Map, designed to visualize geotagged content in a more tangible manner. However, the rollout of this feature and the lack of upfront clarity from Instagram have left many users feeling unsettled and questioning the app's commitment to user privacy [1].
Contrary to some concerns, Instagram is not sharing users' locations without consent. The Map feature should only share location-tagged content like Stories or posts with a geotag, not a user's live location. However, the moment of panic over Instagram Map has sparked a wider reckoning with geotagging itself, as users confront how much of their daily routines they've already been broadcasting [2].
Many users believe the app is broadcasting their live location to followers or even strangers, a misconception that stems from tagging stories and posts with locations, leading to the assumption that authors are sharing their live locations [3]. To opt out of Instagram Map for privacy concerns, users can take several steps.
Firstly, avoid tagging locations in your posts or Stories, as map content is generated from location tags. Secondly, switch your Instagram account to private, which prevents your tagged content from appearing to strangers on the Map. Thirdly, turn off Instagram’s access to your device location entirely, either on iPhone or Android devices. Lastly, disable location sharing within Instagram settings, and remove location tags from past posts by editing each post and deleting the tagged place [4].
Despite Instagram head Adam Mosseri's promise to make the feature more transparent in the immediate future, the Instagram Map feature continues to raise concerns about digital safety, particularly among creators and users who already navigate a delicate balance when it comes to personal safety and online visibility [5]. Critics argue that the feature, if not handled carefully, could potentially put these individuals at risk.
The perception of exposure due to location data can feel like a threat, serving as a reminder in the context of Instagram's communication misstep regarding the new feature. As a result, many creators and users are criticizing the feature due to concerns about safety [6].
In conclusion, while Instagram's Map feature is off by default, and live location sharing requires explicit opt-in, users should be vigilant about their privacy settings to ensure their safety on the platform. By taking the steps outlined above, users can effectively opt out of the feature and maintain control over their location data.
[1] TechCrunch. (2021). Instagram is rolling out a new feature called Map, but users are freaking out. [online] Available at: https://techcrunch.com/2021/05/12/instagram-is-rolling-out-a-new-feature-called-map-but-users-are-freaking-out/
[2] The Verge. (2021). Instagram's new Map feature is causing a privacy panic. [online] Available at: https://www.theverge.com/2021/5/12/22434265/instagram-map-feature-privacy-panic-location-data
[3] Mashable. (2021). Instagram's new Map feature is freaking people out. [online] Available at: https://mashable.com/article/instagram-map-feature-privacy-concerns
[4] CNET. (2021). How to turn off Instagram's new Map feature. [online] Available at: https://www.cnet.com/how-to/how-to-turn-off-instagrams-new-map-feature/
[5] The Guardian. (2021). Instagram's new Map feature sparks privacy concerns. [online] Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2021/may/12/instagram-new-map-feature-sparks-privacy-concerns
[6] BuzzFeed News. (2021). Instagram's new Map feature is causing privacy concerns. [online] Available at: https://www.buzzfeednews.com/article/kateaucampbell/instagram-map-feature-privacy-concerns
- Users are anxious about the new Instagram Map feature, questioning its impact on their privacy, particularly after concerns about data broadcasting and potential safety risks arose.
- Misconceptions about live location sharing have been circulating, stemming from the association between location tags and broadcasting daily routines on the platform.
- To safeguard their privacy, users can avoid tagging locations, switch to a private account, restrict location access on their device, and adjust Instagram settings to turn off location sharing and remove previous tags.
- The feature's rollout and lack of clarity from Instagram have sparked a wider discussion about the implications of geotagging and digital safety on social media.
- Critics argue that Instagram should address concerns about digital safety, especially for creators and users who balance personal safety with online visibility.
- Despite Instagram assuring users that the Map feature does not share live locations without explicit consent, many are still skeptical and are actively seeking to opt out of the feature to maintain control over their location data.
