Instagram Will Now Let All Users Filter Comments By Keyword

The internet — and its accompanying social media networks — can be a fickle beast. The same post could have friendly, supportive feedback right next to vitriolic, threatening rants from complete strangers. Last month, Instagram began testing a feature that let high-profile users filter out unwanted comments based on keywords, and now that new tool is becoming available to all Instagram users.

Instagram announced Monday that it had rolled out the new keyword moderation system that allows users to list words they consider offensive or inappropriate.

To access the feature, users tap the settings icon on their mobile profile, tap on “Comments,” and activate “Hide Inappropriate Comments.” Doing this will switch on Instagram’s default list of offensive words, which users can update. Comments with these words will then be hidden from posts.

instagram-comments

“To empower each individual, we need to promote a culture where everyone feels safe to be themselves without criticism or harassment,” Kevin Systrom, CEO and co-founder of the photo sharing service, wrote in a blog post. “We know tools aren’t the only solution for this complex problem, but together, we can work towards keeping Instagram a safe place for self-expression.”

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