The new function Friend map of Instagramavailable in Italy from 1 October 2025, allows users of share your geographical position in real time with selected friends. Meta presents the option as a simple way to stay updated on the activities of contacts and discover nearby places and events. However, behind this convenience they hide significant risks related to privacy and securitywho deserve attention before activating the function.
The main risks for privacy
When active, Friend Map records the user’s position Whenever the app opens and every time she shares geotaggiati content, also noting the time. These data allow you to reconstruct daily movementsidentify home address, work and personal habits.
The greatest criticality concerns the fact that this information is stored centrally on the meta servers without end-to-end encryptionthus exposing them to possible access by employees or computer criminals in the event of violations. Experts also underline how data can be used for a extremely precise advertising targetingreaching users based on the places they attend.
The dangers for minors
The function can become particularly risky for minors or vulnerable people. The constant sharing of the position can facilitate the cyberstalkingthe harassment and the possibility that unhealthy people trace users. Although control is limited to selected contacts, social pressures and poor awareness of the use of data can lead to reveal more information than desired. Minor safety and protection organizations have highlighted how these tools can be easily exploited harmfully.
How to protect yourself and deactivate Friend Map
To limit risks, it is essential to have a conscious approach to the use of apps and social networks. Users should deactivate the functioncheck the location authorizations on the device and constantly monitor the settings of their contacts, especially for the youngest through the Instagram family center. Disable Friend Map is simple: just open the app, access the DM section, select the Map Settings icon, choose the Nobody option and confirm with the fact.
Although Friend Map may seem like a fun and practical tool to share one’s life, privacy implications are significant. Check and limit the sharing of the position remains The safest choice To protect themselves and loved ones.
