New Facebook Feature Prevents Misuse of Profile Pictures

Facebook is rolling out new tools in India which will prevent the misuse of your Profile Picture. The new feature was added in response to feedback from users in India, citing the numerous safety and privacy challenges that Indian users face with their social media accounts.

With Facebook’s new Profile Picture Guard feature, you will now be able to prevent your profile picture from being downloaded by anyone.

Facebook Product Manager, Aarati Soman revealed this feature on Wednesday. The Photo Guard or Profile Picture Guard will be accompanied with a new design feature which compliments the former. Facebook’s research shows that adding unique designs to your profile picture also helps stop its misuse:

Based on preliminary tests, we’ve learned that when someone adds an extra design layer to their profile picture, other people are at least 75% less likely to copy that picture.

What Does it Do?

Indian users will be able to see a step-by-step guide to secure their profile picture in their News Feed soon. After setting up the Profile Picture Guard:

• Other people will no longer be able to download, share or send your profile picture in a message on Facebook.
• People you’re not friends with on Facebook won’t be able to tag anyone, including themselves, in your profile picture.
• Prevent others from taking a screenshot of your profile picture on Facebook, which is currently available only on Android devices.
• A blue border and shield will be displayed around your profile picture as a visual cue of protection.

How to Turn it On

To turn on the Profile Picture Guard for your DP, all you need to do is head over to your profile settings on your Facebook App. Tap on your picture and tap “Turn on Profile Picture Guard”. It doesn’t get more simpler and secure than this.

Facebook has said that the feature is expected to be available in other countries soon.