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Instagram has rolled out a major update, introducing a Map feature alongside reposting tools and a new “Friends” tab in Reels. The update allows users to share their last active location—not real-time—whenever they open or return to the app.
By default, location sharing is off and users must actively opt in. However, the map also displays posts, Reels and Stories tagged to specific places (such as restaurants or events) from accounts users follow, even if those accounts haven’t turned on location sharing. These geotagged posts can appear on the map for up to 24 hours.
Meta has stated the location data won’t be used for advertising and while it currently stores the data for up to 28 days, the company says it aims to reduce that retention window to three days.
Why the Backlash?
The feature’s launch has triggered intense debate over privacy and safety. Critics warn it could lead to harassment, stalking or doxxing—especially if users accidentally overshare their location.
Some users have reported confusion, mistakenly believing the feature was turned on automatically. A few claim their home addresses were visible, causing significant distress. Privacy advocates also worry the tool could enable tech-based coercive control in abusive relationships, making it easier for someone to monitor another’s movements.
Experts add that for teens, the feature could create social pressure to share their whereabouts for validation, further complicating online safety.
Parents’ Concerns and Controls
Parents with teen supervision enabled on Instagram receive notifications when their child starts sharing their location. They can also control whether the teen can use the feature and choose who they can share it with.
Even so, safety specialists recommend that parents have open conversations with their kids about privacy, explaining how location-sharing works and the potential risks. Complex settings mean accidental oversharing is still possible, even with good intentions.
How to Turn Off Instagram’s Location Sharing
If you want to disable the Map feature:
- Open Instagram and go to your Direct Messages.
- Tap the map icon at the top of the screen.
- Tap the settings gear in the top-right corner.
- Select “No one” to turn off location sharing, or customize your sharing list.
Instagram’s Map feature is designed to help friends connect and discover new spots but the privacy risks—especially for teens—are hard to ignore. The safest approach is to stay informed, double-check your settings and talk openly about online boundaries within your household.
