Why is Instagram’s new Map feature controversial, and should you disable it?

Instagram has recently introduced a new feature called Instagram Map, which allows users to share their real-time physical location with others on the app. While this feature aims to make it easier for friends to stay connected through shared content, privacy experts have raised concerns about the amount of data being exposed and potential safety risks to users.

According to a blog post by Instagram, users can opt into sharing their last active location with friends they choose, and they have the ability to turn the feature off at any time. The company emphasizes that Instagram Map is not automatically active and users must actively opt-in to the location-sharing tool in order to make their whereabouts visible to others. Additionally, users can choose not to share their locations in specific places or with particular people.

Despite these privacy controls, experts warn that social media users may not always be aware of the information they are sharing with the app or its users. Douglas Zytko, an app safety expert, points out that while users have the ability to toggle location settings on and off, they may not always understand how to do so or whether their settings match their privacy preferences.

When the Instagram Map feature is turned on, any content with a location tag, such as a post, reel, or story, will appear on the app’s map for 24 hours. The user’s location is updated whenever they open or return to the app, but the feature can be turned off at any time.

Adam Mosseri, head of Instagram, shared how he personally uses the map feature to share his activities with a select group of friends. However, some users have reported confusion over whether their locations are being pinned on friends’ maps by default. Mosseri reassured users that the feature requires double consent before sharing location information.

To turn on Instagram Maps, users can tap on the messaging function in the app and click on the circular world map icon labeled “map.” From there, they can choose to share their location with no one, a custom list of friends, or all of their followers who they also follow back on the app.

Privacy and safety experts warn that location-sharing features can pose risks, especially for younger users. Robbie Torney of Common Sense Media notes that these features create social pressures and risks of harassment or stalking, particularly if users are not selective about who they share their location with.

In conclusion, while Instagram Map offers a new way for users to connect through shared locations, it is essential for users to understand the privacy controls and potential risks associated with sharing their real-time physical location on social media platforms.