Instagram intensified monitoring of content published on Stories, alerting users about restrictions that could lead to the removal of publications, reduction of reach and, in serious cases, the definitive blocking of the profile. The platform, which has one of the most popular temporary sharing tools in the world, has established clear standards to ensure a safe, legal and respectful environment for all its billions of active users. As rules range from bans on graphic nudity and promotion of illicit substances to the spread of public health misinformation and financial fraud.
Explicit sexual content and the fine line of sensuality
Instagram strictly prohibits the publication of explicit nude images or videos, even if the post is made on private Stories or with a restricted circle of viewers. The social network’s policy establishes strict limits on what is considered acceptable, aiming to protect its users against unsolicited or inappropriate sexually explicit material.
Content that shows close-ups of completely exposed buttocks, genitals and female breasts fully exposed is banned. Existem, however, specific exceptions for health and breastfeeding contexts, such as posts related to post-mastectomy health, are permitted by the platform.
Fraud risk and the ban on sensitive data
The disclosure of personal data and sensitive information is a serious violation of the guidelines, representing a security risk for the user and the community. The rule aims to prevent confidential information from being used in fraud and scams.
- You should never publish photos of official documents, such as ID and CPF.
- Addresses and bank details are also strictly prohibited.
- Digital security experts reinforce that this type of exposed content facilitates the action of scammers and cyber criminals.
The platform considers the exposure of this data a violation of the user’s security and privacy, and the detection of such content may result in its immediate removal.
Combating disinformation and illegalities
Instagram’s moderation system is permanently attentive to publications that may cause harm or disorder, mainly on public health and safety issues, and the promotion of crimes. The fight against misinformation gained special attention after global events, such as the pandemic, which required greater rigor in fact-checking.
False health information, unproven treatments or anti-vaccine theories are targeted for removal and have their reach reduced, in an attempt to prevent the spread of content potentially dangerous to public health. Da Likewise, any publication that advocates or sells illicit drugs, including marijuana in places where it is not legal, such as Brazilian territory, is banned. Publicações related to alcoholic beverages and tobacco may also have restrictions, especially those aimed at minors.
Hate speech and copyright infringement
The social network has a zero tolerance policy against hate speech and prejudice, which includes insults against groups protected by characteristics such as race, gender, sexual orientation, religion or disability. Mesmo publications with ironic or humorous intent may be considered violations, subject to profile ban.
Financial schemes and scam detection
Suspicious offers and fraudulent schemes are priorities for network moderation. The platform uses automatic systems to identify the dissemination of financial pyramids, dubious cryptocurrencies or raffles without a legal basis. Além removal of the content, the user may be the target of reports to the competent authorities, depending on the severity of the fraud. Promoting any type of scam is considered a serious violation of community guidelines.
Consequences of violating Stories standards
Failure to comply with community standards results in a range of punishments that begin with removing the content and sending a formal warning to the person responsible for the account. In situations of recurrence, the platform may apply more severe restrictions, such as loss of reach in publications, temporary suspension of functionalities or, in the extreme, definitive deletion of the profile. Violações that involve illegalities, such as condoning crime or fraud, may even be forwarded to the police authorities.
