Here’s what you should know about Instagram’s new user settings

For those who use Instagram fairly frequently, comment spam tends to be more of an annoyance than a problem. But the commenting system on the social network can also be used in an abusive way. Thankfully, the Facebook-owned company is now ringing in changes which should make it a more comfortable place to be.

Kevin Systrom, the company’s CEO and co-founder, published an outline on the Instagram blog this week, highlighting how it intends to change the commenting system.

You can soon entirely disable, delete comments

Although users can filter select words from their comment streams, Instagram will be giving users more power.

“We’ll soon add a way to turn off comments on any post,” Systrom announced on the blog.

“Sometimes there may be moments when you want to let your post stand on its own. Previously this was only available for a small number of accounts. In a few weeks, it will be available for everyone.”

You can soon favourite comments

And if you still love your Instagram community, Instagram will also allow users to like select comments.

Instagram users can soon remove users from following their private accounts, and disable comments entirely

“In the coming weeks, we’re also adding the ability to like comments by tapping a heart icon next to any comment,” Systrom adds.

This, rather interestingly, pushes the social network a little nearer into Facebook territory.

Removing followers from your private account

Another nice touch is Instagram’s new account control feature. The company announced that users with private accounts need not simply block unwanted followers but can actually remove them entirely.

“Going forward, if your account is private, you can remove followers by going to your list of followers and tapping the … menu next to any person’s name,” Systrom explains.

“The person will not be notified that you removed them as a follower.”

Anonymous reporting incoming

Finally, Instagram is adopting an anonymous reporting programme for those who are experiencing self-harm.

The company notes that it intends to be a “place where people can share deeply personal moments” and the round-the-clock service aims to bolster this notion.

“From time to time, you may see friends struggling and in need of support. If you believe that someone you care about may be thinking about injuring themselves, you can report it anonymously, and we will connect your friend to organisations that offer help,” Systrom concludes.

Systrom notes that these updates “mark the beginning” of Instagram’s additions to become a “welcoming and safe place for everyone”.