The past week has seen Instagram undergo several updates — but not everyone is thrilled about the latest addition to the photo sharing app.

Instagram Map is the platform’s latest update, and while it hasn’t officially landed in Australia (yet), it’s already generating a mix of curiosity and concern online. The function allows users to share their live location with mutuals — a move that’s being positioned by Meta as a way to help people feel more connected. But as the feature rolls out globally, early users are sounding the alarm about privacy, safety, and just how much information we’re handing over. Here's what you need to know.

So, what is Instagram Map?

Instagram Map lets you share your real-time or recent location through DMs. For example, letting friends know you’re at that new wine bar you've been meaning to try, or just nearby if they’re also out and about. You can choose to share with people you follow back or select a private custom list. According to Meta, the feature is off by default, and your location is never shared unless you actively opt in.

But is it actually an opt-in system?

Concerningly, the rollout hasn’t been seamless. Across TikTok and X, international Instagram users are reporting that their location appeared to be enabled without any clear opt-in moment — with some waking up to find a floating icon hovering over their home address. Understandably, it’s raised questions.

One user, Mai, took to TikTok to share that her followers had begun messaging her saying that her location had automatically been made public. "I had a lot of people messaging me saying, 'Mai, your live location is showing. We know exacrtly where you are'", she said.

Echoing a similar stentiment, TikToker Jamila Bradley said in a video, “This app [feature] being dropped with no announcement, no fanfare — people just waking up and finding a floating icon above their very own houses is one of the most dangerous things I can imagine."

There are real safety concerns with real-time location sharing

It’s easy to see why people are hesitant: real-time location sharing poses serious risks. If you’ve ever had a bad breakup, a persistent follower, or a reason to keep your whereabouts private, the idea of broadcasting your movements — even just to mutuals — doesn’t exactly feel like progress. Cybersecurity creators have also voiced concern, pointing out how patterns of movement can reveal everything from your workplace to your daily routine. Others have flagged the risks for users recovering from harassment or domestic abuse. Even if you’ve curated your following list carefully, not everyone you follow is necessarily someone you trust with your location.

So how do you turn off Instagram's location function?

If (or when) Instagram Map appears on your app, it’s worth checking your settings — even if you haven’t touched anything. To review your location sharing, head to your DMs and look for the Map icon or banner. Tap through to “Who can see your location?” and either switch it off entirely or limit it to a private list of trusted followers. You can also block specific users if you’re feeling unsure.

It’s worth noting that Instagram Map is separate from tagging a location in a Story or post — those are static, and disappear after 24 hours. The Map, on the other hand, moves with you.