Meta Apologises for Instagram Reels Glitch Showing Graphic Content

By Evans Momodu
3 minute digest
Updated 10:33 UK GMT, 28 February, 2025


Meta has issued an apology after a technical error led to violent and graphic videos appearing in users’ Instagram Reels feed.

“We have fixed an error that caused some users to see content in their Instagram Reels feed that should not have been recommended,” a Meta spokesperson said. “We apologise for the mistake.”

On Tuesday, numerous users reported seeing disturbing videos labelled as “sensitive content,” including scenes of violence. Meta has not disclosed the cause of the glitch.

Meta’s Push for Short-form Video Instagram Video Features amid TikTok Uncertainty

The incident comes as Meta intensifies its push for short-form video engagement, particularly with TikTok’s future in the U.S. uncertain. TikTok faces a potential ban unless it finds a new, non-Chinese owner within the next month, per a law passed by former President Joe Biden and extended by President Donald Trump.

Instagram is actively rolling out features similar to TikTok’s, such as extended video length and a “tap to pause” option for Reels. Meta is also preparing to launch Edits, a video creation app similar to TikTok’s CapCut.

Changes in Meta’s Content Moderation Policies

Meta recently revamped its content moderation strategy, replacing fact-checkers with a user-driven Community Notes model and scaling back automated content removal to focus only on extreme violations like terrorism, child exploitation, and fraud.

CEO Mark Zuckerberg admitted the platform will “catch less bad stuff” but emphasized a stronger commitment to free speech.

Despite these changes, Meta stated that the Instagram Reels glitch was unrelated to its moderation policy adjustments.
Source: CNN