Instagram will block hashtags spreading false news about vaccines



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Instagram had previously blocked hashtags containing false information, such as #vaccinescauseautism and #vaccinescauseaids. From now on, the company will also block hashtags that do not necessarily contain false information but are used by anti-vaxxers to spread false statements. For example, if groups started using the hashtag # vaccines1234 to share erroneous information, this hashtag would be blocked by Instagram.

When a hashtag is blocked by Instagram, it is virtually impossible to find content or organize it. Trying to click on a banned hashtag will not produce any results and the hashtag will not show when users search for it. The parent company Facebook has also taken similar measures to limit the spread of misinformation about vaccines.

Instagram also said that he was looking for new ways to combat false information. The company is already posting a pop-up message when people search for opioid-related hashtags or self-injury and explore a similar one for vaccine-related topics. The company said the process was still in its infancy, as it continued to develop its policies for content management and potentially harmful accounts. Earlier this week, Instagram announced that it will create new universal guidelines on account ban management, while offering users new tools to use withdrawals.

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