Instagram users around the world have been raising concerns as their feeds suddenly filled with violent and NSFW (Not Safe for Work) content. Many users reported seeing disturbing videos even though their sensitive content control settings were turned on. The issue has caused frustration and confusion, leading many to discuss the problem on the social media platform X.

Users report seeing disturbing content

Many users shared their experiences, saying that their Instagram feeds were flooded with graphic violence and explicit material. They expressed their shock and demanded an immediate fix from Instagram.

A user wrote, “Something happened to the Instagram algorithm today. I’m getting way too many fights, accidents, and shooting videos. All of them were posted within the last 12 hours. Almost all of them are marked as sensitive media.”

Another user commented, “Today, Instagram feeds are full of physical violence, sensitive content, sexual abuse, and sex caught on camera. Is everyone getting such reels, or is it only me?”

One shocked user posted, “What the fuck is wrong with Instagram? Every second or third reel is extremely sensitive content. Mr. Zuckerberg needs to fix it, as it’s been like that for more than 12+ hours. New fears unlocked. Truly the darkest day of social media. Instagram = Dark Web.”

Several people questioned whether the issue was widespread, with one user asking, “What’s wrong with Instagram today? My feed and reels keep showing sensitive content—cringe, uncomfortable, and unwatchable. Shockingly, this is happening to the majority of people.”

Some users even recorded their screens to show their Instagram feed filled with sensitive content warnings.

Meta apologises and fixes the issue

Meta, the company that owns Instagram, did not immediately release a public statement about the issue. However, later, the company confirmed to CNBC that the problem was due to an “error.”

A Meta spokesperson stated, “We have fixed an error that caused some users to see content in their Instagram Reels feed that should not have been recommended. We apologise for the mistake.”

Instagram’s content policies

According to Meta’s policy, Instagram aims to protect its users from harmful and violent content. The platform removes posts that show “dismemberment, visible innards, or charred bodies,” as well as content with “sadistic remarks towards imagery depicting the suffering of humans and animals.”

However, Instagram allows certain graphic content when it is shared to raise awareness about human rights violations, wars, or terrorism.  In such cases, warning labels are added to caution viewers.

Many Instagram users are still waiting to see if the issue is completely resolved and are hoping that Meta will take steps to prevent such incidents in the future.

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