Instagram's Secret SEO Scheme Exposed

Instagram appears to be generating sensational, likely AI-created headlines for user posts without explicit consent, according to a recent report. These titles are embedded in the page's code and surface in search engine results, seemingly an attempt to artificially boost Instagram content's ranking on Google.

Examples include a generic title for a video about a bunny eating a banana and a strange headline for a library's post about a book reading. Cosplayers have also reported their content receiving odd, auto-generated titles that do not reflect their personal descriptions.

This practice is problematic as it can advertise individuals in ways they would not personally choose. The generated headlines are distinct from alt text, which serves accessibility purposes. Users are advised to check their own content to see if it has been affected by this undisclosed SEO strategy.