Is Instagram Safe? Main Security Features and Issues
Do you love scrolling through amazing stories and photos on Instagram? Of course, we all do! While it is fun, there may be worries about staying safe online. So, is Instagram safe?
We'll explore everything you need to know - how Instagram works, its safety features, whether or not it's safe, and how to stay safe on the platform. Let's get right into the details!
Part 1. How Does Instagram Work?
Before answering the question of how safe Instagram is, it's essential to first look at how this social platform works. (I have to mention that I've used this app for over 5 years.)
Instagram is about capturing and sharing special moments, whether big or small. So, how does it work? It's simple. Let's look at the unique features that make Instagram the rave among the young and the old.
Instagram is constantly evolving and introducing new features and tools. The above are just the core features you can enjoy on the social platform.
Part 2. Is Instagram Safe?
To answer "Is Instagram safe," it has to mention both the safety features Instagram applies and the potential dangers it has. Let's have a look.
Built-in Safety Features of Instagram:
Thankfully, Instagram has several features to keep users' experiences safe and positive on its platform. So, if you are asking - is Instagram safe to use? Here are points to convince you of its safety.
1End-to-end Encryption
Instagram supports starting end-to-end encrypted chats. When your messages are encrypted, they become like a private conversation with a lock. Only you and the recipient can see the messages.
Probably no. Although Instagram uses end-to-end encryption for some direct messages, the recipient can also receive and screenshot the pictures. Therefore, only send private photos to people you completely trust, and do not share photos containing personal info, radical speech, etc.
2Two-factor Authentication
Whenever you or someone else tries to log in from a new device, Instagram will send a code to you as a text or email. The code is required to login to your account on the new device. This adds an extra layer of security to your account.
3Login Alerts
While sending the one-time code, Instagram sends you alerts when someone tries to log in to your account from an unknown device. With this, you can stay informed and act if needed.
4Account Recovery
If you forgot your password or someone hacked into your account, this feature helps you get back into your account seamlessly.
5Block, Restrict, and Report
If you don't want certain persons to interact with you through comments or don't want them to see your online status, you can restrict them. Additionally, if you come across inappropriate content, messages, or accounts, you can block and report them. Instagram will review the report and take action if necessary.
6Private Account
You can keep things personal and protect your account privacy by this, which means only approved followers can see your posts on your profile or in feed.
7Muted Hashtags and Words
This feature allows you to mute specific words, hashtags, or emojis in your search results and comments. This helps filter out unwanted content from your feeds. This is a great feature to protect your kids, especially if you are asking - is Instagram safe for kids?
Safety Issues of Instagram:
While Instagram has several safety features, here are some potential risks associated with the platform.
1Data Collection and Leaks
Like many social platforms, Instagram collects user data to personalize their experience and target advertising. So, what data does Instagram collect? This data includes your personal account info, your contact, your usage patterns, your location, device info, and more.
Although Instagram puts security measures in place, data leak still happens, and this platform was fined €405m in 2022. Therefore, it is crucial to be mindful of what you share.
2Hackers
Instagram is vulnerable to hackers, just like any other online platform. These hackers try to steal users' account information for nefarious purposes if your Instagram password is weak or you click unknown links or ads.
3Not Verifying Users
Verification on Instagram is not mandatory for using the platform. That is, anyone can create an account on Instagram, which means there are many possible fake profiles used for inappropriate behavior and scams.
4Scams
Be cautious of posts or messages promoting suspicious products or promising quick money. And there are many types of scams on Instagram and other social media, such as, phishing scams, fake job scams, giveaway scams, investment scams, etc. Among them, the victims of phishing scams are the most common as they often send a message or email to warn that your Instagram account is suspended.
5Identity Theft
Without a doubt, sharing amazing pictures and videos is what makes Instagram fun. But do you know there are some unscrupulous people who steal your identity through your shared media? Therefore, limit the personal information you share publicly on this platform.
Part 3. Is Instagram Safe for Kids?
Let's get to the hard question – is Instagram safe for 12-year-olds or other kids? Well, this platform requires everyone to be at least 13 years old.
While the fun and social aspects of Instagram can be tempting for children, these same features can pose risks. Let's look at the potential dangers for kids on Instagram.
- Inappropriate Content
- Unlike kid-friendly platforms, Instagram doesn't strictly moderate all content. While it offers a "Sensitive Content Warning" feature, it might not always apply to all content. This can expose inquisitive kids to inappropriate content they are not mature enough to handle.
- Cyberbullying
- This is undoubtedly a harsh reality on social media, and children can be especially vulnerable. The ease of online interaction and anonymity can embolden bullies to perpetrate wicked acts.
- Oversharing
- As stated above, we all like to scroll through Instagram, and teens are no exception. They often don't understand the long-term implications of sharing photos and personal information online. This can lead to addiction and even privacy concerns.
- Peer Pressure
- Instagram feeds can create unrealistic expectations and peer pressure for kids. They might feel inadequate comparing their lives to others' perfect lives they see on Instagram Feeds.
So, how do you make Instagram safe for your kid?
AirDroid Parental Control is your go-to solution for an extra layer of protection for your kids' activities.
The app comes with a social content detection feature, which alerts you when your child browses unhealthy content or is involves in potential risks on Instagram, enabling you to guide your kid towards a positive and safe online experience.
Part 4. How to Stay Safe on Instagram
Now that we've looked at the fun and potential risks of Instagram, let's explore some practical ways to keep your experience positive and safe.
Keep Instagram Updated
The latest version of the Instagram app gives you peace of mind as it fixes and patches previous security bugs. If you don't want to manually update, go to the Play Store or App Store to update the app automatically.
Set a Strong Password
This is the foundation of online security to keep your account away from hackers. Avoid using birthdays or easily guessable words. It's recommended to use a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. To set a strong password on Instagram, follow the steps below:
- Step 1.Go to your profile and click on "Settings and privacy."
- Step 2.Select "Account Center" and then "Password and security."
- Step 3.Tap "Change password" to change your current password to a stronger password.
Complete Security Checkup
Security checkup adds an extra layer of your account security as it shows your account data and helps you know if you need to keep your account secure in four ways: creating a strong password, connecting your account with your email and phone number, and selecting a 2FA method. To review the security checkup:
- Step 1.Go to "Account Center" under "Settings and privacy" as before.
- Step 2.Select "Password and security."
- Step 3.Head to "Security Checkup" and follow its instructions to keep your account safer.
Be Careful of What You Share
Consider what you're posting publicly. Sensitive details like your phone number or home address are best kept private.
Adjust Privacy Settings
If you want only approved followers to see your posts, make your account private. Here's how to:
- Step 1.Go to your profile and click on "Settings and privacy."
- Step 2.Locate and tap "Account privacy."
- Step 3.Then, toggle "Private account" on.
Be Wary of Suspicious Links
Always avoid clicking unknown links from people you don't 100% trust. Most of the time, scams and hackers make use of the direct message feature to reach out to you and send you a URL to lure you into clicking it. When you do so, your account with other info will be stolen for malicious purposes.
Leave a Reply.