This archive report was first published on 9 July 2019.
On July 9, 2019, Instagram announced its efforts to combat online harassment and bullying, a move that comes after numerous complaints about the company's handling of the issue.
According to Instagram's official blog, the company acknowledges that bullying is a complex challenge, particularly for young people, and is committed to leading the industry in the fight against online bullying.
The new features include an Artificial Intelligence (AI) powered tool that notifies users before posting potentially offensive comments, giving them a chance to reflect and undo their comment.
The tool, which is still in the testing phase, has shown promising results, with some users choosing to undo their comment and share something less hurtful.
Additionally, Instagram is introducing a new feature called 'RESTRICT,' which will hide comments from bullies without their knowledge.
While these new features seem like a step in the right direction, it's essential to note that online tools cannot change human behavior, and 100% safety online is still not guaranteed.
As a parent, it's crucial to be aware of your child's online activities, as online bullying can have serious consequences for mental health.