Instagram self-harm pic ban
INSTAGRAM is to ban all graphic self-harm images after facing a backlash over the death of teenager Molly Russell.
But non-graphic content will be allowed to stay so sufferers have a safe space to discuss the issue.
Instagram boss Adam Mosseri said yesterday: “We need to do more to protect the most vulnerable in our community.
“We will not allow any graphic images of self-harm on Instagram, even if it would previously have been allowed as admission. We will also make it harder for people to discover non-graphic self-harm related content.”
Experts from the Centre for Mental Health and Save.org said those affected must have safe online spaces to talk about their problems and get support and help.
But Mr Mosseri said:
“It’s not as simple as just switching a button.”
Molly’s dad Ian had accused the photo-sharing platform of helping the 14-year-old kill herself, claiming she had viewed images on the site “glorifying” self-harm and suicide. Another 30 families then told anti-suicide charity Papyrus harmful social media posts were a factor in their children’s deaths. Mr Russell of North West London, said: “It is now time for other social media platforms to take action.”