Instagram users have reported an alarming increase in violent and graphic content on the platform, including murder videos. This surge is attributed to a bug in Meta’s social media platform, which has caused many users to encounter disturbing content.

Social media platforms like X and Reddit have become outlets for global Instagram users to voice their concerns about the influx of violent videos. Despite some content being labeled as “Sensitive Content,” it remained easily viewable, raising questions about Instagram’s content filtering systems.

Meta, Instagram’s parent company, issued a formal apology, acknowledging and confirming the resolution of the error that led to the abnormal volume of graphic content. A Meta spokesperson stated, "We have fixed an error that caused some users to see content in their Instagram Reels feed that should not have been recommended. We apologize for the mistake."

Meta’s policy framework aims to protect users from disturbing visual content, with guidelines prohibiting excessively violent videos. However, exceptions are made for educational purposes related to human rights abuses, armed conflicts, or terrorism, where warning labels and viewing restrictions are applied instead of complete removal.

This incident has prompted users to call for greater accountability and improvements in Instagram’s content filtering systems.