Users will be able to automatically filter out direct messages request that include offensive words, phrases, or emojis, thanks to a new tool announced by Instagram.
Users who receive a large number of unwanted and aggressive DMs will benefit from the tool.
Along with the filter alternative for offensive direct messages, the company said that it would make it more difficult for people who have been blocked by users to reach them via new accounts.
According to Instagram, the function will be rolled out in a few countries in the coming weeks and will only apply to direct message requests, not the inbox itself.
Users can configure the filter, which can be turned on in Instagram’s privacy settings, to include words, phrases, and emojis they don’t want to see in their message requests.
Instagram has been stepping up its efforts to combat hate speech and online harassment on its app, which is more common among teenagers and young adults than Facebook’s main app.
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