Meta fixes 'error' of violent and offensive content spreading on Instagram

(CLO) Meta apologized on Thursday after Instagram users reported seeing a lot of violent and offensive content appearing on Reels.

The company said it was a "bug" in the system and was quickly fixed. "We fixed the issue that caused some users to see inappropriate content on Reels. We apologize for the issue," a Meta spokesperson said.

Instagram app on Apple iPhone. Photo: GI

The incident erupted after many users took to other social media platforms to express their concerns about the rise of violent and unsafe content on Reels. Some claimed that even with the app’s sensitivity settings turned to the highest level, they were still exposed to horrific images, including dead bodies, serious injuries, and assaults.

According to Meta's policies, the company strives to protect users from offensive images and only allows certain graphic content that raises awareness about human rights issues or armed conflicts. However, this error has allowed heavily censored content to appear on Instagram.

The incident comes as Meta announced changes to its moderation policies to promote free speech. In a January 7 announcement, the company said it would focus on serious violations such as terrorism, child exploitation, drugs, and fraud, while less serious violations would rely on user reports before being dealt with.

Notably, CEO Mark Zuckerberg also announced that he would loosen censorship of political content, changing the information checking program to a "Community Notes" model similar to Elon Musk's social network X. This move is believed to be aimed at improving relations with US President Donald Trump, who has criticized Meta's censorship policies.

Earlier this month, Zuckerberg met at the White House to discuss Meta's role in protecting America's tech standing internationally.

These changes come as Meta has cut 21,000 employees over the past two years, significantly impacting moderation teams on the platform.

Ngoc Anh (according to CNBC, FT)

Source: https://www.congluan.vn/meta-sua-loi-noi-dung-bao-luc-va-phan-cam-tran-lan-tren-instagram-post336495.html