Instagram has released a number of resources and tools to ensure we are and feel safe while using their platform. This is a massive step in the right direction, as many people want to take advantage of using platforms like Instagram but don’t want to feel unsafe or unprotected when doing so. 

From comment tools to advanced security, we’re going to have a look at some of the best ways you can stay safe and private while using your Instagram account: 

Two-Factor Authentication To Log-In Safely

The two-factor authorization has been around for a while now, but nonetheless, it is still an important feature that Instagram has included as part of their security features. It’s a feature that requires you to know both your password and username and then has something on your person each time you log in such as a mobile phone or email access when logging in from a new device. If someone has access to your password but they can’t access your mobile or emails, then they aren’t able to access your Instagram account. 

Turn Your Account Private 

Every Instagram account is visible by default to the entire community. Changing to a private account means you have control over who sees your content. When your account is private, you can remove followers without needing to block them. It’s easy to set up, and going forward it will make you feel safer about being online, especially if you only want family and friends to see your content. 

Block People You Don’t Want Seeing Your Posts 

Even if you choose not to have a private account, you are still able to control who sees your content and who can follow you through the blocking tool. They won’t receive a notification that they have been blocked, but if you wanted to be sneaky and see who’s blocked you check this out https://macpaw.com/how-to/who-blocked-me-instagram. They will still be able to mention your username in their activity, but you won’t receive any notifications. Blocking can be particularly useful if you have experienced any online bullying. 

Take Control Of Your Comments 

The comments are the area where most conversations take place on Instagram, so it essential you feel safe with the comments are left on your posts. They now allow you to filter comments based on keywords or by default keywords. This again is a brilliant way of tackling any online bullying or trigger words for anxiety. These tips may help:

• If you see a comment that you don’t want to see on your posts, you are able ot delete it by using the trash icon. 
• If you want to disable the ability to leave comments on your post, you can do this through the advanced setting before you post. If you want to do it on older posts you can do it by clicking the ‘…’ menu. 

Use A Strong Password And Keep It Safe 

You should choose a password for your Instagram that is strong just like you would with other accounts. It’s best for you to use a combination of letters, numbers, and a special symbol of at least 6 characters. You should never share or post your passwords with anyone, including third-party applications. 

Instagram conducts its own security checks automatically and will prompt your to change your password if there is a chance it has become compromised. If it happens to you, you should take the right approach and change your password straight away. When you share a computer with someone else make sure you log out and uncheck the ‘remember me’ box. For even better security, use a code on your phone to make sure it can’t be accessed if you lose it. 

Report Any Impersonation, Abuse, Or Bullying 

All content on Instagram should follow community guidelines. As a user, it is partly your responsibility to report something that is questionable for review. Once you have reported it, Instagram will look at it and decide whether it should stay or go. You may also receive automated messages for copyright and posts that go against the community standard while posting. It’s for your and others’ safety so make sure any posts that come across this issue are dealt with or reported. 

As you can see Instagram has put many tools in place for you to feel safe and private on their platform. Do you feel as though Instagram is a safe platform to use? Please share your thoughts in the comments area below.