Several Instagram users worldwide raised complaints regarding violent and inappropriate content on their feeds. Even users with Sensitive Content Control enabled also reported seeing disturbing videos, including gory content, in their feeds.

Taking to X, a user raised concern and said, “Is anyone else noticing this on Instagram? In the past few hours, my IG Reels feed has suddenly started showing violent or disturbing videos out of nowhere. Feels random. Is anyone else experiencing this? Or is it just me? Wondering if it’s a glitch or some weird algorithm change."

“Something happened to the Instagram algorithm today. I’m getting way too many fights, accidents and shooting videos. All of them were posted within the last 12 hours. Almost all of them are marked as sensitive media," another user wrote.

A third user commented, “Has anyone of you noticed that Instagram is showing you weird reels or content today?"

Meta Apologises, Says ‘Error Fixed’

Following complaints from several users, Meta apologised on Thursday and said that it had fixed the “error" that resulted in some Instagram users reporting a flood of violent and graphic content. The statement came after a number of Instagram users took to various social media platforms to voice concerns regarding the appearance of inappropriate content.

“We have fixed an error that caused some users to see content in their Instagram Reels feed that should not have been recommended. We apologise for the mistake," a Meta spokesperson said in a statement shared with CNBC.

Notably, the error with Instagram Reels occurred after Meta announced plans to update its moderation policies to better promote free expression.