Instagram’s New Location Sharing Map: How It Works—and How to Turn It Off

Meta’s latest Instagram update has introduced a new feature for U.S. users: a real-time location-sharing map. Dubbed “Friend Map,” it’s designed to help users stay connected by showing where their friends are and what they’re posting from specific locations. But as with any location-based tool, privacy concerns are bubbling up fast.

What Is Instagram’s Friend Map?

Friend Map is Instagram’s answer to Snapchat’s Snap Map or Apple’s Find My. It allows users to:

• Share their last active location with friends they follow and who follow them back.

• View location-tagged Stories and Reels from friends and creators.

• Leave short messages or “Notes” pinned to specific locations.

The feature is opt-in and off by default, meaning your location won’t be shared unless you actively choose to turn it on.

How to Use—and Disable—Location Sharing

If you’re curious (or concerned), here’s how to access and manage the feature:

To Access the Map:

1. Open Instagram and tap the Messages icon (top right).

2. Tap the Map tab at the top of your inbox.

3. You’ll see a prompt: “Who can see your location?” Choose from:

   • Friends (mutual followers)

   • Close Friends

   • Selected users

   • No one

     
     

To Turn It Off:

• Go to your profile, tap the settings icon, then select:

  • Story, live and location

  • Tap Location sharing

  • Choose No one to disable it

    
    

To Disable Location Services Entirely:

• iPhone: Settings → Privacy & Security → Location Services → Instagram → Select “Never”

• Android: Settings → Apps → Instagram → Permissions → Location → Select “Don’t allow”

  
  

Why Are People Concerned?

Despite Meta’s assurances, confusion and backlash have spread quickly:

• Some users reported seeing their location shared without opting in, likely due to location tags in Stories or Reels.

• The map aggregates these tags, making it appear as if your real-time location is visible—even when it’s not.

• Advocacy groups and members of Congress have raised alarms about safety risks for minors, including stalking and coercive control.

Instagram’s head, Adam Mosseri, clarified that location sharing requires double consent and is never automatic. Still, the rollout has sparked a broader conversation about digital safety and transparency.

Tips for Staying Safe

• Review your location tags before posting—especially if you're still at the location.

• Use the “Hidden Places” feature to block sensitive spots like your home.

• Talk to teens about location sharing and use parental controls if needed.

• Keep your sharing list tight—only include people you trust.

  
  

Final Thoughts

Instagram’s Friend Map may offer a fun way to stay connected, but it also underscores the importance of digital boundaries. Whether you're a small-town entrepreneur sharing your latest pop-up shop or a parent keeping tabs on your teen’s safety, knowing how to control your visibility is key.

If you’re using Instagram to promote your business or community, consider how location-based content might help—but always weigh it against your privacy preferences.