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Instagram will now blur images the app’s community deems ‘sensitive content.’

In order to continue its commitment to foster a safe community, Instagram has built tools to safeguard self-expression on its platform.

“Our teams are focused on making Instagram a kind, welcoming place for everyone, and we’re just getting started.” – Co-founder & CEO Kevin Systrom 

That commitment began with a focus on kindness.

Instagram first began its commitment to maintain a safe community by developing tools that gave users the ability to delete comments, report inappropriate content and block accounts. The most recent addition to these tools allows users to hide inappropriate comments. This feature is a keyword moderation tool that anyone can access by tapping the gear icon on their profile. Under Comments, you can list words you consider offensive or inappropriate and these words will be hidden from your posts.

The photo sharing app will also be taking steps to moderate sensitive content by layering reported posts with a screen. This is content that Instagram believes may contain sensitive material, but doesn’t violate community guidelines.

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Last September, we made a commitment to the community to keep Instagram a safe place for everyone. This year we will continue to act on that commitment and also focus on fostering kindness. The first step is to celebrate the kindness our community is already known for. On March 25 and 26, Instagrammers will come together for Worldwide InstaMeet 15. Join an InstaMeet near you — or spread kindness by leaving an encouraging comment, giving an inspiring person a like or sharing a message of support with a friend. As part of our goal to build a safe environment, we also have some updates to announce. Soon you may notice a screen over sensitive photos and videos when you scroll through your feed or visit a profile. While these posts don’t violate our guidelines, someone in the community has reported them and our review team has confirmed they are sensitive. This change means you are less likely to have surprising or unwanted experiences in the app. If you’d like to see a post that is covered with a screen, simply tap to reveal the photo or video. We also have developed a new, easy-to-use site where you can learn about keeping yourself safe on Instagram. Check out instagram-together.com for more information. Our teams are focused on making Instagram a kind, welcoming place for everyone, and we’re just getting started. Kevin Systrom Co-founder & CEO

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You can still view the screen-covered post by tapping to reveal the photo or video.

For more information on Instagram’s promise to keep its community safe, head to www.instagram-together.com.