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Instagram Cracks Down on Nudity

 & Stephanie Mlot Contributor

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Facebook-owned Instagram this week updated its community guidelines with a stronger stance against photos that it deems inappropriate.

That includes a ban on nudity. "We know that there are times when people might want to share nude images that are artistic or creative in nature," the updated guidelines said. "But for a variety of reasons, we don't allow nudity on Instagram."

Specifically, that includes photos, videos, and some digitally created content showing sexual intercourse, genitals, and close-ups of fully nude buttocks.

"Some photos" of female nipples—like post-mastectomy scarring and women breastfeeding—are allowed, as is nudity in photos of paintings and sculptures.

"We want Instagram to continue to be an authentic and safe place for inspiration and expression," the service said.

You might want to think twice about posting that adorable video of your toddler in the bath, though. Instagram "may remove images that show nude or partially nude children."

If you're offended by Instagram content, tap the three-dot button below an image to "Report Inappropriate."

The move comes after celebrities like Miley Cyrus joined the so-called "Free the Nipple" campaign, which protests what supporters call a double standard on Instagram regarding nudity: shirtless men are allowed, but shirtless women are not.

The Instagram update, meanwhile, also stressed that it does not allow threats of harm to public or personal health, or encouraging violence based on someone's race, ethnicity, nationality, sex, or gender.

Instagram will also take action against the support of self-harm, and keep a watchful eye on graphic violence—even when posted in the context of newsworthy events.

Facebook took a similar stance last March, clarifying its Community Standards to provide more guidance on policies for dangerous organizations, bullying and harassment, criminal activity, sexual violence and exploitation, nudity, hate speech, and more.

About Our Expert

Stephanie Mlot

Stephanie Mlot

Contributor

My Experience

  • B.A. in Journalism & Public Relations with minor in Communications Media from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP)
  • Reporter at The Frederick News-Post (2008-2012)
  • Reporter for PCMag and Geek.com (RIP) (2012-present)

My Areas of Expertise

  • Science & Space
  • Video Streaming Services
  • Social Media
  • Cars & Auto
  • Education

The Tech I Use

  • iPhone 12 Pro
  • MacBook Air (hooked up to a 23-inch Dell monitor)
  • Google Chrome
  • Google Drive
  • Soundcore Life P3 earbuds
  • Various Amazon Echo devices

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