Instagram’s getting new security improvements, verification requests

Instagram is bringing new security features to the social network.

In a statement released by CTO Mike Krieger, the company will debut three additional safety features to its platform.

“Our mission is to bring you closer to the people and things you love. That closeness can only happen if Instagram is a safe place”, he said.

The first new feature adds an “about this account” menu to user profiles.

“You will be able to see more information about accounts on Instagram that reach large audiences so you can evaluate the authenticity of the account.”, Krieger explains.

Said information includes country of origin, mutual followers, username changes and ad partnerships.

This tool will be available for all accounts after “larger accounts” review it in September.

Instagram will also broaden users’ access to verification by allowing users to apply for verification using their IDs. This will only be applicable for accounts that have a large following.

“The blue verified badge is an important way for you to know that the account you are interacting with is the authentic presence of a notable public figure, celebrity, global brand or entity,” Krieger notes.

He added that there is no guarantee that applications for verification will be successful.

Lastly, the two-factor authentication is also receiving a tweak, and will be global in a few weeks.

The two-factor authentication improvement — that was previously handled using SMSes — comes in the form of third-party authenticator app. This means that you’ll be able to log into your Instagram account by using codes from authenticator apps, and not sent via SMS.

“This form of two-factor authentication makes it easier and safer for you to securely log into Instagram,” he concludes.

Feature image: Instagram