What the Tech: Instagram Maps
Instagram’s newest update adds a location-sharing map that, at first glance, seems like a fun
way to connect with friends and discover new places. Imagine walking toward your favorite
coffee shop and seeing a post from a friend who’s already inside. But many users say the
feature goes too far and could even put people in danger.
The Instagram Map allows users to see where photos and videos are being posted. You can
zoom in on neighborhoods, tap a location, and view public posts from that spot. In Meta’s
promotional language, it’s meant to make Instagram “more social” by helping friends meet up in
person or explore trending spots nearby.
But shortly after launch, criticism flooded social media. One user wrote, “Does Instagram not
realize how big of a safety issue that is?” Another called it “a burglar’s dream.” The concern is
that posting from a location in real time could let strangers know exactly where you are — or
that you’re not at home.
Meta, Instagram’s parent company, says the Map only shows location information for public
accounts and only if the user chooses to tag a location. It does not reveal your home address
unless you explicitly tag it. The company also insists the feature is turned off by default and
requires users to opt in before their location appears on the map.
Even so, some people report seeing their posts show up without realizing they had enabled
location sharing. Instagram head Adam Mosseri responded to those concerns, saying the
company is “still checking” reports of unintended sharing and reaffirming that the Map is
supposed to require explicit user consent.
The controversy has reached lawmakers as well. U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn and Richard
Blumenthal have called for Meta to shut the feature down entirely, citing safety concerns for
children. They argue that even with opt-in controls, the feature could expose minors to predators
or stalkers.
If you have Instagram’s new Map feature and want to check your privacy settings, it’s simple:
1. Open Instagram and go to your profile.
2. Tap the menu in the top right and select Settings and Privacy.
3. Go to Location Sharing.
4. Make sure location tagging is turned off if you do not want your posts to appear on the Map.
Whether you decide to keep the feature or not, safety experts recommend thinking twice before
sharing your exact location in real time. A safer option is to post about where you’ve been rather
than where you are. If you want to share your current location, limit it to people you trust through
private messages or Close Friends.
