Have you noticed that your favorite artist’s work no longer appears on your Instagram feed? It may just be that they’re affected by the new Instagram sensitive content filter.
One of the best things about Instagram is the endless list of content creators with their unique content. However, not all of them create the kind that is comfortable for everyone.
In a July 2021 update, Instagram put content moderation back into the hands of its users. Instagram announced that it will start limiting sensitive content by default for most of its users.
Here’s what to know about the new filter and how to adjust or disable it for your account.
Why Does Instagram Limit Sensitive Content?
According to the Business of Apps, 7.1% of Instagram users are 13 to 17 years old. With this in mind, it’s no wonder that it’s trying to make its platform more palatable for younger users.
In fact, the app even launched more protection for teens on Instagram when adults are “exhibiting potentially suspicious behavior”. However, most of Instagram’s current user base are already adults, so it’s no secret that content made for adults is the standard.
However, Instagram has slowly begun to realize that with over a billion users worldwide, it’s almost impossible to have just one setting that can satisfy everyone.
It’s important to understand that Instagram is a business where the main currency is our attention. With this in mind, giving users the power to decide how much sensitive content we can handle does just that.
By giving users more power to moderate their own content, Instagram helps them actively customize their preferred experience. So, what type of sensitive content does Instagram filter exactly?
What Is Sensitive Content on Instagram?
Instagram already has community guidelines that ban hate speech, bullying, or posts that pose a direct threat to users. How well this has been implemented is still up for debate, but there is still a push to make Instagram a safer place for most users.
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Today weu2019re giving you more ways to control what you see on Explore. We recognize that everybody has different preferences for what they want to see there, so this control will give you new options to see more or less sensitive content. https://t.co/0ER71MP4Pi
— Instagram Comms (@InstagramComms) July 20, 2021
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The Sensitive Content Filter gives users the ability to choose their preference and while leaving room for content that isn’t suitable for kids or sensitive users, but isn’t banned on the platform.
Why Limiting Sensitive Content Can Be Bad
With all this in mind, it is necessary to note that the Instagram Sensitive Content Filter is not perfect. As with any new feature, this new filter does not guarantee a perfect algorithm, especially upon initial release.
For example, many content creators are dependent on Instagram exposure for their livelihood. However, many artists create work that borders sensitive categories.
With the new filter on by default, artists who create sensual content are at risk of their work not being seen. In addition, depictions of violence that show images from news pages may also be censored.
When this happens, users may miss important newsworthy content on the platform.
How to Disable the Sensitive Content Control on Instagram
While some users are thankful that Instagram is making moves to limit sensitive content, it’s not for everyone. If you to toggle the settings, here’s how you can allow sensitive content back on your Instagram feed…
On your Instagram app, go to Settings > Account > Sensitive Content Control. Then, select Allow.
If you change your mind, you can also return here to choose Limit (Default) or Limit Even More.
Control Your Instagram Experience
There’s no doubt that Instagram launched the Sensitive Content Filter to protect its vulnerable users. However, you still have the option to decide for yourself if you believe that you need protection.
When the world becomes too much, you’re always free to turn your Sensitive Content Filter back on.