Instagram adds comment filter to let people hide abusive replies – how to use it

The app hopes to curb harassment and abuse on the network with the new feature

(Instagram)

Instagram is now offering its users the option to blacklist phrases, keywords, and emojis they don’t want to see.

Co-founder Kevin Systrom announced the feature on his company’s blog on Monday morning. "This feature lets you list words you consider offensive or inappropriate," Mr Systrom wrote. "Comments with these words will be hidden from your posts. You can choose your own list of words or use default words we've provided."

The feature first debuted earlier this summer but was only available for celebrities and high-profile users at the time.

(Instagram)

To activate the filter, simply tap the gear icon within the application and select the Comments tab. Once you tap "Hide Inappropriate Comments," you can add your own keywords to the list. Users are still able to swipe to delete and report comments.

The company previously announced this summer that it was testing the feature on high-profile accounts with the intention of rolling out some form of comment filtering to the general public.

The move may provide ample protection for Instagram’s 500 monthly active users, making an attempt to curb harassment where Twitter, Facebook, and other social media outlets often fall short.

“We need to promote a culture where everyone feels safe to be themselves without criticism or harassment,” Mr Systrom continued. “It’s not only my personal wish to do this, I believe it’s also our responsibility as a company. So, today, we’re taking the next step to ensure Instagram remains a positive place to express yourself.”