Instagram’s new "Friend Map" feature, rolled out in 2025, allows users to share their real-time location with selected friends through direct messages, like Snapchat's Snap Map. While designed to facilitate meetups and shared experiences, the feature raises concerns about privacy and potential misuse, especially for military personnel and individuals in sensitive roles. The feature is optional and customizable, allowing users to control who sees their location and for how long.

Military Security Considerations:
• Location Disclosure:
Sharing real-time location with even a select group of friends can inadvertently reveal a military member's location to unauthorized individuals, potentially compromising security.
• Targeting:
A military member's location could be used for targeted harassment, stalking, or even physical harm.
• Operational Risks:
Sharing location during military deployments or exercises can compromise operational security and reveal sensitive information to potential adversaries.
• Cybersecurity Threats:
Military personnel should be aware that even seemingly innocuous social media features can be exploited by cybercriminals to gain access to their personal information and compromise their security.


Best Practices for Military Personnel:
• Disable the Feature:
Consider disabling the "Friend Map" feature altogether or at least restrict it to a very small and trusted group.
• Exercise Caution:
Avoid sharing your location with anyone who is not a close friend or family member and be mindful of who you are sharing it with.
• Review Privacy Settings:
Regularly review your Instagram privacy settings to ensure they are configured to protect your location information.
• Be Aware of Potential Risks:
Understand the potential risks associated with sharing real-time location and take steps to mitigate them.
• Use Secure Alternatives:
Consider using more secure and private messaging apps for location sharing with trusted individuals.
• Seek Guidance:
If you have concerns about the "Friend Map" feature or its impact on your security, seek guidance from your unit or military security personnel