Instagram begins using machine learning to clamp down on fake activity

InstagramInstagram has begun cleaning up its platform of fake activity as it looks to improve the experiences of users of the platform.

The Facebook-owned app has started using machine learning tools to identify and remove inauthentic likes, follows, and comments from accounts that use third-party apps to boost their popularity.

Accounts identified as using third-party apps to boost followers will receive an in-app message telling them that Instagram has removed the fake likes, follows, and comments that they have given to others. They will also be asked to secure their account by changing their password, as “people who use these types of apps share their username and password, and their accounts are sometimes used by third-party apps inauthentic likes, follow, and comments,” according to Instagram in a blog post.

“We also know some people may have unknowingly shared their login credentials with a third-party app,” said Instagram. “If you receive an in-app message, simply change your password to revoke their access to your account. These new measures will be ongoing, and accounts that continue to use third-party apps to grow their audience may see their Instagram experience impacted.”

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