Instagram’s new map feature faces backlash over privacy concerns despite Meta’s reassurances

Instagram has introduced an innovative feature known as 'Instagram Map' in the United States, aimed at enabling users to share their recent locations while exploring nearby content, reminiscent of Snap Map. Although Meta emphasizes that this feature is optional and initially disabled, numerous users have raised concerns, fearing it may reveal their precise location without their consent. Adam Mosseri, the head of Instagram, responded to the growing backlash in a post on Threads, clarifying that the feature mandates explicit user consent prior to any location sharing. He stated, "We’re double-checking everything, but so far it looks mostly like people are confused and assume that, because they can see themselves on the map when they open, other people can see them too." Mosseri further explained that the sharing process is designed to require "double consent" through a confirmation prompt after opting in. Despite these reassurances, social media has been inundated with warnings regarding the feature. Kelley Flanagan, a former contestant on The Bachelor, created a TikTok video labeling the feature as "dangerous" and demonstrating how to turn it off. One viewer, Lindsey Bell, shared her experience, stating, "Mine was turned on and my home address was showing for all of my followers to see. Turned it off immediately once I knew but had me feeling absolutely sick about it." Mosseri insists that much of the anxiety stems from misunderstandings surrounding the feature. He clarified that the map displays location tags from recent Stories or Reels that include a place tag rather than providing continuous live tracking. However, some users contend that their locations remained visible even after deactivating the feature. According to Instagram, location updates only occur when the app is active or running in the background, and unlike Snap Map, it does not provide real-time updates unless users explicitly choose to share them. Additionally, users have the option to restrict sharing to specific locations or individuals, adding an extra layer of control over their privacy.