Instagram displays the exact location of users in Brazil and later removes the feature; company says release was accidental

Instagram starts displaying real-time location of users in Brazil and raises concern
Repdoução/Instagram
Instagram has released the "Instagram Map" in Brazil, a feature that allows users to share their location with their followers. The new feature, launched unintentionally on Wednesday (10), generated concern on social media for showing the exact point where a person is (see reactions).
➡ In a note sent to g1 at 11:22 am, Meta reported that the "Instagram Map" was accidentally released in Brazil and that it was already correcting the problem.
When it was released, the tool informed, on its presentation screen, that "you are not sharing your location, unless you activate this option". Instagram also said that "your followers can see your content in the locations you tag."
Access to the feature is within the direct messaging (DM) area. A globe icon labeled "Map" opens a view where you can see the location associated with posts and stories shared by users.
Now on g1
The feature had already generated controversy in 2025, when some users had early access to the feature and reported concerns about location sharing.
At that time, the company said it was "developing this feature with security in mind, including easy ways to control who can see your location and hide specific locations, such as your location. work, and reminders for people to share their location only with those they trust."
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Negative repercussions
On social media, users criticized Instagram's new functionality and warned of possible privacy and security risks when using this type of tool.
"Instagram giving weapons to stalkers", wrote one person on craziest things I've ever seen," wrote another.
What Instagram says
"We are aware that the Instagram Map feature was accidentally made available to users in Brazil. see price and benefits
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Source: G1