In the News
Instagram continues to roll out new features creating a more complex and user accessible experience. In Instagram adds ‘close friends’ to let you share stories to a more limited group, Casey Newton at The Verge discusses Instagram’s newest feature which allows for users to create more private stories by choosing which select friends get to see their story post. Newton explains that the ‘close friends’ feature gives users the option to provide viewing access to only their chosen individuals making the feature ideal for those wanting a more personal and less public experience on social media. Newton elaborates that this feature was created in the wake of the popular “Finstagram” accounts.
Our Take
The popularity of social media continues to grow at ever increasing rates. Individuals of all ages use social media for sharing detailed personal experiences and events with their friends, family, and many times with strangers. While many people are okay with their not-so-close acquaintances seeing a post of them with their friends or a cute selfie, others may be yearning for a way to participate in social media with a more private following. Oversharing is a huge concern when using social media, and the ‘close friends’ feature may be a way for individuals to reduce the amount of personal information that is shared with a large following. This feature does require additional effort to use, and while some may take the time to select who can see their story content, others may view the process as too much of a hassle. Regardless of whether you chose to post Instagram stories publicly or using the ‘close friends’ feature, it is essential to think about what you are sharing and whom you are sharing it with…not everything in your personal life should be shared on social media.
Recommendations
How can you protect your information while using social media?
- Understand the risks of putting your personal information into the world, and only share what you have to
- Set up privacy settings on all accounts
- Refrain from sharing highly sensitive personal information online
- Just allow those you know and trust to follow or friend your social media accounts