Instagram has been a part of my life since 2011, offering a platform where I could connect with friends and family across the globe. Over the years, however, it has transformed from a vibrant community into a frustrating maze of artificial intelligence and bureaucratic barriers. Recently, I lost access to my Instagram account because Meta changed the codes for my 2-Factor Authentication without informing me. When I reached out for assistance—a service I had already paid for—they refused to help. Even after involving a legal team, Meta deliberately ignored my requests for 2 going on 3 years.

This isn't just about me. Many users have faced similar issues, left helpless against the automated processes that can mistakenly deactivate accounts or, worse, falsely accuse users of egregious offenses like CSAM and even after getting the proper information they still refuse to help. Meta's reliance on AI to handle account recovery, scan the system for suspected users and falsely accusing users is flawed and unjust, causing undue stress and irreversible damage to users who have spent years building their online presence.

It's time for Meta, the parent company of Instagram, Messenger, WhatsApp, Mapillary, Messenger Kids, Viewpoints, Threads and Facebook, to implement a more user-friendly account recovery process. Users should not have to pay for support when a dedicated team should already exist to handle these problems. Support should not send automatic messages to users as a "tough luck" response. Meta must remove the flawed 2-Factor Authentication system that relies on IDs and should implement a robust, AI driven processes that remove accounts without a human's intervention, and have a second level team to help streamline a human-centered process for recovering accounts, not just automated systems.

Additionally, Meta's AI should focus on identifying and removing users who are genuinely harmful to the platform, i.e. faceless accounts rather than penalizing innocent users. If they can scan your IP and ban it from there, then this means they have the bandwidth and the tools to do a better job. This could be achieved through a transparent review system that allows for appeals and explanations before drastic measures, like account deactivation or being sued by users, are taken.

Instagram, Facebook and other Meta products are vital platforms for personal expression and connection, and their operations should reflect this. Join me in urging Meta to prioritize user welfare over automated systems. Let's make our voices heard to ensure real changes are made. Please sign this petition to demand Meta enacts better policies and practices for its users. Thank you for reading!