Exclusive: Meta to block search access to 350,000 posts using hashtags associated with Guardian’s findings
Instagram has been used to promote sexual violence and exploitation by people advertising themselves as “pimps”, a Guardian investigation has found.
For the past year, the Guardian has been tracking Instagram accounts hosting content that advocates such activity as well as those that encourage violence against the women under the control of a pimp – someone who makes money from selling others for sex.
The accounts identified often use hashtags as well as code phrases commonly associated with sex work to make it easier for buyers to locate them.
As a result of the Guardian’s investigation, Meta has closed down some Instagram accounts and prevented users from searching for hashtags and emojis associated with pimp accounts that were used on more than 350,000 posts.
Posts promoting abuse – including slapping, beating, choking and the denial of food – against women were widespread. In multiple accounts women are referred to as “bitches” and “hoes”.
Read full story here: https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2024/mar/05/pimps-use-instagram-to-glorify-sexual-violence-and-abuse-investigation-finds
Katie McQue 