Threads’ latest keyword-search feature has come with certain restrictions. The application now blocks “potentially sensitive” keywords.
It includes terms like “vaccines,” “COVID,” and other phrases often linked to disinformation on Meta’s network.
This move by Meta seems to be a proactive measure against the dissemination of contentious content on their newest application.
The barred list includes terms related to the pandemic and vaccinations, such as “coronavirus,” “covid-19,” and “covid vaccines,” alongside other keywords potentially indicating inappropriate content like “gore” and “nude.”
In a recent statement to The Post, the company confirmed this blocking approach, emphasizing its temporary nature. An official spokesperson noted that certain keywords might yield sensitive content, thus they’ve temporarily halted search results for them.
Adam Mosseri, overseeing Instagram and Threads, mentioned via a tweet that the company aims to learn from previous missteps and opt for caution during this feature rollout.
Historically, Meta has had its fair share of concerns related to its search functionality on platforms like Instagram, with criticism targeting the platform’s unintentional promotion of misleading content and conspiracies.
The onset of the pandemic was particularly challenging, as searches often led to anti-vaccination conspiracies.
Interestingly, Meta’s current stance of blocking all “potentially sensitive” terms, irrespective of their adherence to the platform’s rules, marks a departure from their former less assertive strategies.
Although Meta has, in the past, restricted search capabilities on platforms like Facebook and Instagram, interventions usually occurred for terms directly tied to violating content.
The company has also strived to refine search outcomes on subjects such as vaccines and directed users to authoritative sources within the app.
However, as highlighted by The Washington Post, this comprehensive blockade on COVID-associated terms means users might face hurdles accessing valid information, resources, or discussions, even if they don’t contravene platform regulations.
