Instagram announced in a blog post Sept. 12 that the image-based platform is launching a comment moderation tool for Instagram, effectively allowing users to block both default keywords and block words that the user manually feeds into the app. With the new tool already available at our fingertips, it's only natural for users to wonder what the Instagram comment moderation default terms are that the app can automatically block for you — especially when knowing the default terms might save you the trouble of having to block them yourself.
An Instagram spokesperson told Bustle that Instagram can't provide specific details on what the automatically blocked words are, but that the list is extensive and includes words that are frequently reported by users as offensive. What that means for users is that odds are if there is a word you are hoping to block, unless it is fairly unique, it's probably already covered by Instagram's default block feature. You can always use the feature and add specific keywords that you find offensive just in case, of course — but it looks like this new tool is very thorough in its default setting to begin with.
So how exactly can you go about using the new comment moderation feature? First, make sure that your app is running with the latest version by heading to the App Store to update it. Then when you hit the gear button on the top right of the app, you'll see a new option for "Comments," which takes you to your new options for moderation.
As you can see, blocking offensive words from your comments is as easing as swiping right on the toggle next to "Hide Inappropriate Comments". Below it is an option for "Custom Keywords," so the user can make their comments section a thoroughly-safe, non-triggering space without worrying about having to set their Instagrams to private or blocking someone after reading the inappropriate comment.
"The beauty of the Instagram community is the diversity of its members. All different types of people — from diverse backgrounds, races, genders, sexual orientations, abilities and more — call Instagram home, but sometimes the comments on their posts can be unkind," wrote CEO and Co-Founder Kevin Systrom on Instagram's blog. "To empower each individual, we need to promote a culture where everyone feels safe to be themselves without criticism or harassment. It’s not only my personal wish to do this, I believe it’s also our responsibility as a company. So, today, we’re taking the next step to ensure Instagram remains a positive place to express yourself."
Of course, if you're wondering about whether or not a super specific word has been blocked on the default list, you can always team up with a fellow 'grammer you trust and put it on the comments of each other's Instagram posts to see if it still pops up (maybe just set your Instas to private first, depending on how offensive other people might find the term). But odds are any of the terms on the default list are not ones that you're going to miss!
Images: Pexels; Emma Lord/Bustle
