DC Internet Safety - Instagram

I installed Instagram (IG) on a whim because a friend from California used it.  It didn't take me long to realize that anybody could follow me (that my account wasn't automatically set to private), and I soon looked for and changed my privacy settings.

What Instagram is:
IG is a social media platform for sharing media (pictures and videos) with others.  In addition to the picture or video, you can also add text and hashtags. IG can be used for much good, but there are some dangerous things about it, too, if you are not careful!

Things to know:
1.  If my settings are set to public (and they are by default), then anyone can "follow" me and see my pictures and videos (and any text/hashtags I may have written along with my media). Anyone -- whether I know them in person or not.  
2.  To change my posts to private, I must do it from the IG app  on my phone or tablet because I can't do it from a desktop computer.  
3.  When my posts are finally set to private, if someone wants to follow me they essentially have to ask my permission by sending a follow request.  I can either approve or deny their request.  
4. If I allowed someone to follow me, and later decide I don't want them to see my posts after all, then I can block them from seeing my posts.  
5. They won't be able to see my posts anymore.  But they can see any of my activity on other people's posts.  
6.  I can always change my username if I feel the need to do so.  
7. If I followed someone, but don't want to see their posts anymore, I can "unfollow" them.  They will not be notified when I do so.

*Parents: Know your child's username and password so you can check to see who your child is following on IG.  There are lots of people and businesses with public profiles, sharing pictures and content that you might deem inappropriate (too provocative, profane, etc) for your child.  Lots of skin can be shown in a picture or video, but would still be considered appropriate by IG's guidelines.  You can report content you feel is inappropriate, but it's not guaranteed it will be taken down.  

IG has a great support/help section with tips and guidelines for usage, privacy, and safety!