Introduction

Instagram has launched a series of new features aimed at safeguarding young users from sexual extortion scams, commonly known as “sextortion.” These scams involve perpetrators threatening to release sensitive images or videos unless the victim sends more explicit content or money. Instagram’s latest measures are designed to offer a safer space for young users by countering malicious activities targeting them.

New Security Measures to Combat Sextortion

One of the most significant updates is a feature that prevents screenshots and screen recordings of disappearing photos or videos sent through direct messages. Even if the sender has allowed these images to be replayed, Instagram will block their access via web browsers. However, this feature does not fully prevent scammers from recording the content using another device.

Instagram will also implement new methods for detecting suspicious behavior, such as tracking how long an account has been active. Based on such indicators, the platform will block or redirect follow requests from suspicious accounts to the spam folder, especially if these accounts appear to be targeting young users.

Protecting Against Fake Location Claims

To combat another common tactic used by sextortionists—false location claims—Instagram is testing a notification system. This will alert users when someone they’re communicating with claims to be in another country. This new feature will help users quickly spot and report scammers trying to deceive them with misleading location information.

Restricting Access to Sensitive Information

Instagram is tightening privacy controls by restricting suspicious accounts from accessing information such as followers or the people the user follows. Sextortionists often use this data to manipulate victims. The platform will also prevent these accounts from viewing liked posts, tagged photos, or interacting with other users in those photos.

Automatic Blurring of Explicit Images

Instagram is rolling out a feature designed to automatically blur explicit images. Initially tested in April, this feature will be activated by default for users under the age of 18 worldwide. This change aims to reduce the chances of young users encountering inappropriate content.

Raising Awareness and Providing Support

In addition to these safety features, Instagram is working to raise awareness about sextortion. In case of reports related to sexual extortion or child safety, users will be able to contact the Crisis Text Line in the United States directly through the platform. Educational videos on sextortion will also be shown to young users in the U.S., UK, Canada, and Australia, providing critical information on how to identify and protect themselves from these scams. According to FBI data, there was a 20% increase in sextortion cases between October 2022 and March 2023.

Instagram’s Commitment to User Safety

Meta, Instagram’s parent company, has also been actively working to eliminate sextortion-related activities. In recent months, it has removed over 800 Facebook groups and 820 accounts associated with Nigerian cybercriminal gangs, particularly the Yahoo Boys, who are known for engaging in sextortion scams. In July, Meta also took down more than 63,000 Instagram accounts based in Nigeria linked to these illicit activities.

Collaborating with Other Platforms

Instagram is not the only platform taking action against sextortion. Other social media platforms, like Snapchat, have introduced similar warning systems. These systems alert young users when they receive messages from accounts that they have blocked or reported.

Instagram’s Ongoing Efforts to Create a Safer Space

These measures are part of Meta’s broader initiative to make its platforms safer for children. Last month, Instagram announced that all young users would have their accounts set to more private by default. The platform will also enable security features like Sleep Mode, which mutes notifications at night, to help protect young users.

Conclusion

Instagram’s new measures to combat sextortion scams represent a significant step toward ensuring the safety of young users online. By implementing features like blocking screenshots of disappearing content, restricting access to sensitive information, and alerting users about suspicious behavior, Instagram is taking proactive steps to protect teens from exploitation. These features, combined with educational resources and support options, create a safer online environment for young people. As social media platforms continue to evolve, it is crucial for both users and platform providers to stay vigilant and prioritize the security and well-being of minors in the digital world.