United States of America: Attorneys General of 37 States announced investigation into Instagram over location-sharing feature

Description

Attorneys General of 37 States announced investigation into Instagram over location-sharing feature

On 13 August 2025, the Attorneys General of 37 states opened an investigation into Instagram's new location-sharing feature. It was highlighted that displaying users’ precise, real-time locations on a map increases the risk of stalking, harassment, and exploitation. The investigation will also focus on particular danger to minors who could be targeted by sexual predators, as well as survivors of domestic violence and other vulnerable groups. Instagram was urged to block minors from enabling the feature, require clear alerts to adults outlining risks and how location data will be used, and provide a simple, accessible opt-out option. The Attorneys General stressed that Meta has a duty to prioritise safety over product innovation and demanded prompt action to prevent the continuation of practices that endanger privacy and security.

Original source

Scope

Policy Area
Consumer protection
Policy Instrument
User/subject right
Regulated Economic Activity
platform intermediary: user-generated content
Implementation Level
national
Government Branch
executive
Government Body
other regulatory body

Complete timeline of this policy change

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2025-08-13
under deliberation

On 13 August 2025, the Attorneys General of 37 states opened an investigation into Instagram's new …