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

Instagram starts displaying real-time location of users in Brazil and raises concern
Repdoução/Instagram
Instagram mistakenly released the "Instagram Map" in Brazil, a feature that allows users to share their location with their followers. The tool appeared this Wednesday (10) and generated concern on social media due to a breach of privacy. (see reactions)
➡ In a note sent to g1, Meta reported that the function was accidentally released in Brazil. "We are working to correct this," the company says.
Do you have any suggestions for a report? Send it to g1
Before being taken offline, the tool informed, on the 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."
The feature is within the direct messaging (DM) area. By tapping the globe icon labeled "Map", the user opens a screen where they can see the location associated with posts and stories shared by other 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 the time, the company stated that 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 workplace, and reminders so that people only share their location with those they trust."
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Negative repercussions
On social media, users criticized Instagram's new functionality and warned of possible risks to privacy and security.
"Instagram giving weapons to stalkers", wrote one person on MAP where you can see where people are!!!", said a third user.
"Don't activate the location on the Instagram map, especially if you're a woman. This is one of the craziest things I've ever seen", wrote another.
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Source: G1