Meta has come under scrutiny as users reported encountering graphic and violent content unexpectedly on their Instagram Reels. This development drew immediate reactions from the user community, prompting Meta to issue an apology and pledge to rectify the mistake.
The issue arose when numerous Instagram users noticed that their feeds were inundated with sensitive content, including violent and explicit imagery. This anomaly occurred despite some users having activated Instagram’s ‘Sensitive Content Control’ at its highest level.
In response, a Meta spokesperson admitted, ‘We are fixing an error that caused some users to see content in their Instagram Reels feed that should not have been recommended. We apologize for the mistake.’ This statement was disseminated through multiple channels, including CNBC, highlighting the organization’s commitment to addressing user concerns.
Meta’s existing content policies are designed to shield users from harmful imagery. The company clearly prohibits content that graphically depicts dismemberment, visible internal organs, or charred bodies, along with media containing sadistic comments about the suffering of humans and animals.
However, Meta acknowledges that certain graphic images are permissible if they serve to inform or increase awareness about critical issues like human rights violations, warfare, or terrorism. Such content is often accompanied by warning labels to manage viewer discretion.
Notwithstanding these policies, on Wednesday evening, CNBC revealed multiple instances of explicit content on Instagram Reels, which depicted deceased bodies, severe injuries, and violent incidents. All these posts were marked as ‘Sensitive Content,’ underscoring the inadequacy of current content controls.
Meta’s commitment to correcting this inadvertent breach of content guidelines aims to restore user trust and ensure a safer social media environment.
