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Instagram's new 'Friend Map' feature puts your privacy at risk


The new 'Friend Map' feature on Instagram might be sharing your precise location without your knowledge. Here's how to turn it off — and why you might want to.

This geolocation system is powered by satellites orbiting earth and doesn’t require internet connection or telephone reception to operate. Your location gives away personal information about you — which could be used to prosecute you if you live under a regime criminalizing things like abortion, visa violations, or homosexuality. Domestic violence charity Refuge(new window) writes that “modern technology gives abusers ever-growing ways to stalk, isolate, and control women using the tools of everyday life.” In this context, creating a live feed of a person’s activity is incredibly dangerous.

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