Is Instagram Map showing your location? How to check and turn it off

How do I find Instagram Map?

There a couple of ways you can access Instagram Map:

• DM Inbox: Tap the Map icon at the top of your Direct Messages tab to launch the interactive map. 
• Story or post: Tap the location tag in a Story or Post, and then Instagram will open the Map view for that place.

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Is Instagram Map's location sharing on by default?

No. You have to opt in before anyone can see your precise, last-active location in Instagram Map. 

Can strangers see my real-time location?

Not unless you share it. Map only shares your precise, last-active location with friends you've approved. You can set it to "No one."

How often does Instagram Map update my shared location?

Instagram has said your location updates every time you open the app, and it disappears after 24 hours if you haven't been active.

Why am I seeing people on my Map who haven't opted in?

According to Instagram head Adam Mosseri, people are seeing location-tagged posts and Reels on Map and assuming that means their live location is being tracked. "Your last reel is showing up on the map, not your current location. Your live location is not being shared, and it will never be unless you decide to share it," Mosseri wrote on Threads.

So, if you tag a location in content, it will appear on the map for 24 hours -- but this does not share your precise, last-active location (which is what Mosseri calls "live location"). 

If I tag a location in a post, will it show up on the Map?

Yes, if your account is public, then tagged posts and Stories can appear on the Map.

Can I hide certain locations or places from some people?

Yes, you have the option to choose up to three places to set as hidden. When you're at a hidden place, no one will see you on the map. You can also choose specific people to hide your location from.

1. Open Instagram and tap the Messages icon in the top right of your feed.
2. Tap Map at the top of your inbox. 
3. Tap the Settings icon in the top right and then Options.
4. Add a hidden place: Tap Add, drag a pin to the map, click next, and done. 
5. You can then go back to Options, tap, "Hide from...," and choose accounts to hide your location.