How to Turn Off Instagram’s New Map Feature (And Why You Should Immediately)

Instagram recently rolled out a new map feature that gives users more visibility into the locations tagged in posts and Stories. While it might seem like a fun way to explore content based on places, it also poses serious privacy and safety risks — especially if you're unknowingly sharing your exact location.In this blog, we’ll break down:

• What the Instagram map feature is
• Why it’s dangerous
• How to turn it off on iPhone and Android
• Smart tips to protect your privacy

What Is the Instagram Map Feature?

The Instagram map feature allows users to view public posts that have been tagged with specific locations. This means if you tag your home, workplace, school or even your regular café, others can easily view your content based on those locations.While the feature is useful for discovering local content or popular spots, it can also reveal your real-time location and daily routines to strangers without you even realising.

Why This Puts You at Risk

Using location tags or giving Instagram access to your phone’s GPS can expose you to the following risks:

• Stalking – Anyone can track your movements if you're consistently tagging places
• Burglary – Criminals can use location data to find out when you're away from home
• Harassment – Unwanted attention from strangers based on your location tags
• Digital footprint – Once shared, your location data becomes part of your online history

The bottom line? You don’t need to share your location to share your life.

How to Turn Off Instagram’s Map Feature on Your Device

To truly protect your privacy, you need to turn off Instagram’s access to your device’s location settings. Here’s how to do it:

For iPhone Users:

1. Open the Settings app
2. Scroll down and tap Instagram
3. Tap Location
4. Select Never
5. Confirm that it says Not Allowed

For Android Users:

1. Go to Settings
2. Tap Apps or Apps & notifications
3. Find and select Instagram
4. Tap Permissions
5. Select Location
6. Choose Don’t Allow
7. Make sure it shows Not Allowed

On Instagram:

MAKE SURE IT'S OFF – DO THIS

1. Go to Instagram Settings
2. Select Device Permissions
3. Select Location Services
4. Tap Turn Off if it is not off

The Instagram map feature might seem harmless, but when used carelessly, it can compromise your security. Whether you're a content creator, influencer or casual user  taking control of your location settings is essential.

Turn it off. Stay aware. Protect your digital presence.

Did you find this helpful?
Share it with a friend who needs to know this. And follow for more simple online safety tips.