Instagram‘s New ‘Card’ Feature Sparks Privacy Concerns Among Users
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Instagram’s latest feature, dubbed “card,” designed to facilitate location sharing, has ignited a wave of anxiety among users who fear their whereabouts may be disclosed without explicit consent. The rollout, mirroring a similar function on Snapchat, has prompted a swift backlash as reports surface alleging unintended location data exposure.
The new “card” functionality, presented on August 6, aims to “allow everyone to stay in contact with their friends more easily,” according to the platform.Instagram explains that the feature will allow users to view content from friends and creators in popular locations.However, the initial response has been dominated by concerns over potential privacy breaches.
user Reports of Default Location Sharing
Despite assurances from Instagram that location sharing will require explicit user authorization, numerous individuals have reported instances of their location being shared by default.One user recounted a disturbing experience, stating: “My location was on and my personal address was visible for all my subscribers. I turned it off promptly as soon as I knew, but it made me really sick.” These accounts, widely circulated on social media platforms like Threads and in dozens of videos, have fueled the growing apprehension surrounding the new feature.
Instagram Responds to Mounting Criticism
Faced with the escalating controversy, Adam mosseri, director of Instagram, addressed the concerns on Threads. “We all check, but so far, it truly seems that users are confused and think that as they are seen on the card at the opening, other people can also see them,” he explained.
Mosseri sought to reassure users, emphatically stating that “your location will only be shared ‘if you decide to share it.'” He further clarified that visibility will be limited to “a limited group of people you choose.” The director also revealed his personal use of the feature, sharing that he utilizes it to “share my activities with some of my closest friends.”
Limited Initial Rollout and Future Expansion
Currently, the “card” functionality is only available in the United States, with plans for an international launch at a later date. This phased rollout allows Instagram to monitor user feedback and address any technical issues before expanding the feature globally.
the situation underscores the ongoing tension between social media platforms’ desire to innovate and users’ increasing demand for robust privacy protections. While Instagram maintains that user control is paramount, the initial rollout has clearly demonstrated the need for clear interaction and diligent monitoring to ensure user trust is not eroded.
Why: Instagram launched a new feature called “card” intended to improve location-based connection between users. though, the rollout was met with immediate backlash due to user reports of unintended location sharing.
Who: The key players are Instagram (and its director, Adam Mosseri), Instagram users, and indirectly, Snapchat, whose similar feature inspired “card.”
What: the “card” feature allows users to share their location to view content from friends and creators in popular locations. The controversy centers on reports that the feature was sharing location data by default, despite Instagram’s assurances to the contrary.
How did it end? Instagram responded to the criticism by clarifying that location sharing is opt-in only and visibility is limited to chosen contacts. The feature remains in a limited rollout in the United States as Instagram monitors feedback and addresses technical issues. The situation highlights the ongoing conflict between innovation and
