Meta: Afghan Users’ Facebook Friend Lists Hidden for Protection

DID Press: Meta has disabled access to the “Friends” list for Facebook users in Afghanistan amid growing concerns that the Taliban are exploiting social media data to identify critics and individuals at risk—an unprecedented security move that now extends to Instagram and LinkedIn as well.

Following rising warnings that the Taliban are using social-media information to track civil activists, government critics, and vulnerable groups, Meta announced that it has completely restricted the ability to view or search the “Friends” list on Afghan users’ Facebook accounts. Nathaniel Gleicher, Facebook’s Head of Security Policy, confirmed the decision, saying the new restrictions aim to prevent misuse and provide an added layer of protection for Afghan users.

According to Gleicher, Facebook has also activated the “Lock Profile” tool, which with a single click limits non-friends from viewing profile photos, posts, and timeline content. Meta added that special security recommendations for Afghan users are now displayed automatically on Instagram as well.

The protection measures are not limited to Facebook and Instagram. LinkedIn announced that, to safeguard Afghan users, it has temporarily restricted the visibility of professional connections and is closely monitoring developments in Afghanistan.

Twitter, while facing criticism over its handling of Taliban-related content, stated that user safety remains its top priority.

Meta had previously reiterated that it removes Taliban-related content because the group is designated as a terrorist organization.

Experts say the new wave of security restrictions reflects deep concern among technology companies about the risks posed by Taliban rule and the potential for organized misuse of Afghan users’ data.