Instagram used as a connection by a network of pedophiles

According to an investigation conducted by the Wall Street Journal, Stanford University and the University of Massachusetts, Instagram acts as a connection tool for a large network of pedophiles. Without embarrassment, members publish illegal content on the social network.

The survey report informs us:

"Instagram helps connect and promote a vast network of accounts openly dedicated to ordering and purchasing pedophile content. Pedophiles have long used the internet, but unlike forums and file transfer services that cater to those interested in illicit content, Instagram doesn't just host these activities. Its algorithms encourage them. Instagram connects pedophiles and guides them to content sellers through recommendation systems that excel at connecting those who share niche interests."

So much alarming information, putting Meta's security team on alert. Worse still, some of the application's options would allow better "promotion" of posts with child pornography connotations.

"Some accounts invite buyers to order specific acts. Researchers at the Stanford Internet Observatory found that some menus include prices for videos of children harming themselves and 'images of minors engaging in sexual acts with animals'. At the right price, children are available for face-to-face 'encounters'."

Meta's algorithmic technicality and the power of its hashtags make access to such content unfortunately easy to find. In its report, the inquiry shares the network's lack of responsiveness, contenting itself with offering an option to report dangerous content, rather than deleting it directly.

Meta's answer:

Meta's internal report highlights the increase in child-crime-related content. In response to the Wall Street Journal report, Meta has committed to implementing appropriate security measures. The group announced that a new task force had been set up to expel malicious networks from the platform.

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