Meta is introducing important security updates on its social media platform, Instagram, aimed especially at protecting young users. To address the rising number of blackmail incidents, the company is making significant changes to its DM (Direct Message) feature. Instagram has begun technically blocking the ability to take screenshots of messages, and those who violate this rule will be banned from the platform.

Instagram takes blackmail seriously

According to the announcement, taking screenshots or screen recordings of photos and videos sent with the ‘view once’ or ‘allow replay’ feature in Instagram’s Direct Messages will no longer be possible. Meta representatives commented on the matter, saying “Our users will no longer have to worry about their content being saved without permission.”

The platform also announced that these security measures would apply to the web version. However, since it’s technically harder to prevent screenshots on a computer, users will not be able to access ‘view once’ content through Instagram’s web version, ensuring that the screenshot restriction cannot be bypassed.

Meta’s new features don’t end there. The company has also developed a filter system that automatically detects and blurs images containing nudity. This system will also warn users about the potential consequences of sharing such content.

Lastly, Instagram has warned that users who find a way to bypass the system and take screenshots of DMs will be permanently banned from the platform.

What do you think about this? Share your thoughts in the comments.