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Instagram users worldwide have voiced alarm over an unexpected surge in violent and sensitive content appearing on their feeds. Numerous users have taken to X (formerly Twitter) to report that their Instagram Reels and feeds are showing graphic videos, including violent altercations and other disturbing material, despite having Sensitive Content Control enabled.
Instagram Users Report Unsettling Experience
Several users have expressed shock at the sudden appearance of such content. One user shared their frustration on X, writing, “Anyone else noticing this on Instagram? In the past few hours, my IG Reels feed has suddenly started showing violent or disturbing videos out of nowhere. Feels random. Is anyone else experiencing this? Or is it just me? Wondering if it’s a glitch or some weird algorithm change.”
Another user echoed similar concerns, tweeting, “What is happening to Instagram?? All I’m seeing is sensitive and violent content every few scrolls????”
The sentiment was further reinforced by a third user who commented, “Is it just me or is Instagram Reels violent as f–k right now?? I am only getting fight videos and couples cheating on each other.”
The disturbing trend has left users feeling unsettled. One user detailed their experience, writing, “So far, I found like 12 Instagram reels of a fight (with no blood/gore visible at first glance) and a video of bodycam footage with a child predator fatally shot (censored).”
Instagram content moderation system
Meta, Instagram’s parent company, has not yet issued an official statement regarding the issue. However, speculation is mounting that the surge in graphic content could be the result of a malfunction in Instagram’s content moderation system.
According to a report by Vocal Media, Instagram uses AI technology to scan and limit the visibility of sensitive content. If the AI system malfunctions, it could inadvertently allow such content to reach a broader audience. The timing of the surge suggests that a bug in the platform’s moderation system may have occurred recently.
Another possible explanation is a change in Instagram’s algorithm. The platform frequently updates its algorithm to improve content recommendations. However, a glitch in the latest update may have unintentionally prioritized certain types of content, leading to the influx of disturbing material.
Users Left Disturbed and Traumatized
While some users have speculated that Instagram’s content moderation team might be on strike, there is no credible evidence to support these claims. Additionally, recent reports by The Information suggest that Instagram is working on launching Reels as a standalone app, but there is no indication that this development is related to the current issue.
As Instagram users continue to demand answers, the platform remains silent on the issue. Whether the influx of disturbing content is the result of a bug, algorithmic changes, or another technical issue, the widespread concern highlights the importance of robust content moderation systems on social media platforms.
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