Meta Platforms, Inc META designed its Instagram's Reels to show users short videos on topics like sports and fashion. However, a test conducted by The Wall Street Journal revealed that Instagram's algorithm also recommends inappropriate content, including sexualized videos to specific user profiles.
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The Journal's investigation involved setting up test accounts that followed young gymnasts and influencers. This led to their algorithm presenting a combination of content, which notably included "overtly sexual" adult videos, appearing alongside advertisements from well-known U.S. brands.
Meta responded by stating that the WSJ's tests didn't represent the typical user experience and highlighted their efforts in removing or reducing problematic videos. They also mentioned new brand safety tools for advertisers. Despite this, the Journal's findings raise serious concerns about Instagram's content recommendation system.
Rumble was among the companies responding to the report. A spokesperson told the Journal that the company plans to halt its advertisements on Meta's platforms, emphasizing that Bumble "would never intentionally advertise adjacent to inappropriate content."
Price Action: META shares were up 0.16% to $338.77 at the time of publication Monday.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
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