Instagram Safety Boost: New Features vs. Impersonation & Scams
Creating a secure and supportive space on Instagram is our top priority. Today, we’re excited to share the newest features aimed at empowering users with vital information to enhance their safety within the community.
In our ongoing efforts to maintain a safe environment, we employ automated systems to swiftly identify and remove accounts breaching our Community Guidelines. However, our commitment goes beyond this, as we introduce additional features to alert users about potentially suspicious activities, enabling proactive measures to safeguard their accounts.
Detecting deceptive behaviors is crucial, especially since bad actors often bide their time before engaging in malicious actions. We are dedicated to raising awareness and providing tools to help users identify attempts at impersonation, scams, and other deceptive behaviors, allowing them to take preventive action.
Our early intervention tools, initially tested in late 2022, are now widely available on Instagram. Despite continually enhancing our detection and enforcement techniques, we acknowledge the adaptability of bad actors who frequently change tactics to evade detection. Recognizing that a single tool or company cannot combat industry-wide threats, we actively collaborate with industry peers, innovate, and consistently update our community.
Here are some key features designed to alert users to potential impersonation and scams:
- Follow Requests Notice:
If an account suspected of impersonation or engaging in potentially scammy activities requests to follow you, a notice will be displayed, reminding you to be cautious of potentially unwelcome or suspicious interactions.
- Direct Message Warning:
Users will receive a warning if an account suspected to be deceptive sends a direct message (DM), allowing them to review and consider the message before accepting the request.
- Suspicious Link Alert:
In addition to blocking known malicious links across our apps, Instagram takes steps to alert users if a link appears suspicious. Tapping on a link in someone’s profile bio that raises suspicion will trigger a pop-up warning, helping users review and identify potential scams before proceeding.
Stay informed and stay safe as Instagram continues to evolve its features, working tirelessly to keep the community protected against impersonation and scams.
