Instagram will implement a new feature that will prevent users from viewing possibly abusive messages. The feature will effectively filter offensive words, phrases and emojis on the app.
An important functionality of the new feature, the company announced on April 21st, is that besides filtering abusive direct messages, the app will also make it harder for people already blocked to continue contacting users through new accounts.
Users can use their discretion to report, delete or open messages, which will be sorted into a hidden requests folder
Instagram
According to Reuters, Instagram has also given high priority to stem the flow of hate speech, as well as online abuse on the platform. Among teenagers and young adults, Instagram has become more popular than Facebook.
The new filter, which can be activated on Instagram in privacy settings, can be customized by users to include certain words or phrases, emojis that they wish to avoid receiving in their message requests.
The feature, which is only applicable to direct message requests and not the inbox itself, will roll out in some countries in the coming weeks
Instagram
According to the company, in the near future every user in the world will be able to use the feature, which will effectively block out people from contacting them on Instagram.
