We like to see it.
Whether it's face-to-face or via social media, body shaming is absolutely unacceptable - and it sees that tech platforms are finally starting to take note.
Facebook and Google are increasingly using automated intelligence to block body shamers and remove their violating content. Likewise, Instagram recently introduced a feature that detects bullying language and asks users, “Are you sure you want to post this?” - but there's still a long way to go in the fight against online hate.
Indeed, according to research by Bumble, 1 in 4 Brits have been body shamed online on a dating app or social media and 54 per cent of people are less likely to feel good after spending an extended amount of time on the internet for that exact reason.
That's exactly why the women-first dating and networking app has announced that it will ban body shaming by updating its terms and conditions to explicitly ban unsolicited and derogatory comments made about someone’s appearance, body shape, size or health. This includes language that can be deemed fat-phobic, ableist, racist, colourist, homophobic or transphobic. We like to see it.
The app uses automated safeguards to detect comments and images that go against its guidelines and terms and conditions, which are then escalated to a human moderator to review. Bumble profiles that include body shaming language will be moderated, as well as any body shaming comments that are made through the app’s chat function. Anyone thought to be body shaming will also be given resources to help them change their behaviour. If you've been a victim of body shaming, the app will also encourage you to report it.
As part of this change, Bumble is also reviewing its photo moderation policy. In 2016, the company banned shirtless bathroom mirror selfies and indoor photos in swimsuits and bras. The company is now reviewing its photo guidelines and will be updating these.
We're pleased to see such a major platform making strides to stamp out hate.
Written by Bianca London.
This article originally appeared on GLAMOUR UK.
