The algorithm of Instagram reels, part of the Meta giant, he lifted concerns for the safety of minors. An investigation of Wall Street Journal reveals that by following certain accounts of young influencers, the algorithm began to to suggest content inappropriate e sexual, alongside advertisements from big brands. In short, Instagram shows adult content even to those who shouldn't.
The controversial Instagram algorithm that shows adult content (forbidden) even to minors
The test, carried out by Wall Street Journal, which involved the creation of accounts intended to follow young influencers such as gymnasts and cheerleaders, showed that the Instagram algorithm has started to propose adult content, including sexual videos involving adults and minors, and advertisements from well-known US brands.
The investigation revealed an alarming trend: the accounts that followed these young people were being exposed to a worrying mixture of pornography and materials that sexualised children. Experts in algorithmic recommendation systems have highlighted how such "niche" content can provide stronger signals than those of general interest, pushing the algorithm to direct inappropriate content towards users.
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The problem of aggregating adult content on Instagram it was known internally and preventing such spread requires significant changes to recommendation algorithms. However, company documents show that security personnel are largely prohibited from making changes to the platform that can reduce the number of daily active users.
In response, Meta said it is investing billions in safety, security and brand suitability solutions, while admitting the need for further improvements. Various companies, including Match GROUP e Bumble, they suspended or reduced their advertising on Reels and other Meta platforms following these discoveries. Others, like Disney e Hymns, are pressing Meta to avoid such ad placements and have expressed concern about the association of their brands with such content.
