Frequently, while navigating social media and websites, users compromise their privacy, as these platforms often rely on sharing user data with third-party companies. Meta-owned Instagram is no exception. However, Meta has introduced new privacy controls in the Accounts Center section of Facebook, Instagram, and Messenger, granting users increased control over their data.
Among the updates, a crucial feature allows users to manage the connection between their information and Facebook and Instagram accounts. This feature enables users to identify businesses sharing data with Meta, clear past data, and halt future web activity tracking.
Steps to Block Instagram from Tracking Your Web Activity
Open your Instagram app.
Navigate to your profile by tapping on the profile picture in the bottom right.
From your profile, tap the three horizontal lines in the top right and select “Settings and Privacy” from the menu.
Choose “Accounts Center,” the first option on the screen.
Select “Your Information and Permissions” and then tap on the “Your Activity Off Meta Technologies” option.
Here, users are presented with several options. They can view recent activity, disconnect specific app activity, clear previous data, or manage future activity to prevent businesses from sending data. Opting for “Manage Future Activity” and “Disconnect Future Activity” will also clear past activity, ensuring that businesses no longer receive information about user interactions with them.
Conclusion: As users engage with various apps and their phone’s browser, data is collected and often sold to Meta, linked to their Instagram profile, resulting in personalized ads. While some users appreciate personalized content, it is advisable to safeguard privacy whenever possible.