Instagram Rolls Out Real-Time Location Sharing Feature

Instagram has begun introducing a new location-sharing tool that allows users to share their precise whereabouts with selected friends or followers in real-time. The feature, aimed at fostering closer connections and facilitating in-person meetups, has been met with mixed reactions since its quiet rollout.

Designed for Connection, but Raising Security Concerns

According to Instagram, the feature is opt-in, meaning users must manually enable it. Locations can be shared for a set duration or indefinitely, and recipients can view the shared position on a live map within the app. Meta, Instagram’s parent company, says the tool is meant to “help friends find each other faster” and “make in-person experiences easier to plan.” However, privacy advocates argue that constant location visibility—especially if settings are misconfigured—could lead to stalking, harassment, or other security threats.

Experts Warn of Stalking and Data Misuse

Digital safety experts caution that real-time tracking can be a dangerous addition to a platform with billions of active users. “Even with privacy filters, the risk of accidental oversharing or malicious misuse is high,” says cyber safety analyst Priya Verma. She notes that location data could also be vulnerable to breaches or be used for targeted advertising.

Instagram Defends with Privacy Controls

In response to criticism, Instagram emphasizes that users have full control over who can see their location and for how long. The feature is off by default, and users can stop sharing at any time. The company has also included a notification system to alert users when location sharing is active.

Balancing Social Utility with Privacy Risks

This launch comes amid growing global scrutiny over how tech companies handle personal data. As social media platforms continue to add features designed to make interactions more immersive, the tension between convenience and privacy remains a persistent challenge. For now, users are advised to review their privacy settings carefully before enabling the new tool.