Instagram Map: How to Use and Protect Your Privacy

Instagram's new "Map" feature, similar to Snap Map, allows users to share their location with others and discover location-based content. Location sharing is off by default and requires explicit consent. Users can access the feature by navigating to their DMs page and tapping the "Map" option. To turn off location sharing, users can follow the steps outlined in the article.

Instagram, a subsidiary of Meta, has recently introduced a new feature that allows users to share their location with others and discover location-based content. Dubbed the "Map" feature, this update is similar to Snap Map and has sparked discussions about privacy and safety. The feature is opt-in by default, meaning users must explicitly consent to share their location.

To access the Map feature, users can navigate to their Direct Messages (DMs) page and tap on the "Map" option. The feature is designed to help users connect with friends and discover content from different locations, such as concerts or restaurants. However, it has also raised concerns among users about potential privacy risks.

To turn off location sharing, users can follow these steps: Open Instagram and go to Direct Messages, tap the Map tab at the top of the inbox, tap the settings icon in the top right corner, under "Who can see your location," choose "No one," and select "Update" or "Done" to save changes. Additionally, users can prevent Instagram from accessing their location through their phone's settings by going to Privacy & Security, tapping Location Services, selecting Instagram from the list of apps, and choosing "Never" to deny location access [1].

Meta has emphasized that the location sharing feature is not automatically enabled and that users have full control over their location data. However, some users have reported that their location was shared automatically before the feature was even rolled out, raising concerns about potential security risks [4]. Meta has since clarified that location sharing is off by default and can only be shared with a limited group of people chosen by the user.

The new Map feature is part of a broader set of updates aimed at enhancing user interaction and safety on Instagram. These updates include reposting tools, a location-sharing map, and a new "Friends" tab in Reels. Meta has also introduced safety enhancements, such as direct messaging controls for teen users and child-safety tools for adult-run accounts [2].

Despite the concerns, the Map feature has the potential to provide users with a more engaging and interactive experience on Instagram. However, it is crucial for users to be aware of the privacy implications and take steps to ensure their location data is protected. As with any new feature, it is essential to stay informed and make use of the available settings to control how your data is shared.

References:
[1] https://tech.yahoo.com/social-media/articles/turn-off-instagram-map-feature-143537878.html
[2] https://tribune.com.pk/story/2560108/instagram-rolls-out-reposts-location-map-and-friends-tab-to-boost-social-sharing-and-safety
[4] https://nypost.com/2025/08/07/tech/instagrams-new-location-tracking-feature-accused-of-attracting-stalkers-heres-how-to-make-sure-its-switched-off/