Instagram is experimenting with a feature ‘User Location Listings’ that aims to increase transparency around Reels content. The platform is testing the option to list the location of the profile that created the clip on the video. An example shared by Salman Memon shows that location information is now visible on certain Reels clips.
The explanation in the app is as follows:
“Instagram is providing this information because, in rare cases, accounts may be misleading people about where they’re based.”
Instagram’s “learn more” CTA then takes you to a page with false information outlined—measures that it’s implementing to combat misinformation on the app.
Read: Top 10 Social Media Mistakes That Are Hurting Your Brand
Exposing these operations could be a good way to reduce their effectiveness, or at least make users aware of how groups outside the region may try to influence opinion on certain subjects.
Listing the location of posts up front adds an extra layer of important context, and could highlight potential misinformation to users.
It’s also simple and unobtrusive; it’s a way to draw attention that won’t confuse or distract the viewer from comprehending the information being presented.
In recent years, Instagram has added a number of elements to combat the spread of misinformation on its platform: labels that identify false information; removal from search results for posts containing questionable content; and proactive detection by artificial intelligence.
According to Meta’s most recent Coordinated inauthentic Behavior update, the company has taken down over 200 global networks—from 68 countries—as it continues its efforts against those looking to use its platforms and manipulate users.
This is another force behind the push to find out what happened, and while its role may not seem significant at first glance, it could prove critical in a wider perspective.
