Because the topic is so sensitive, artificial intelligence probably will not suffice, Mr. Reidenberg said. He said Instagram was also exploring ways to direct users who are searching for and posting about self-harm to organizations that can provide help. This is not the first time Facebook has had to grapple with how to handle threats of suicide on its site. In early 2017, several people live-streamed their suicides on Facebook, prompting the social network to ramp up its suicide prevention program. More recently, Facebook has utilized algorithms and user reports to flag possible suicide threats to local police agencies.

Source: New York Times February 08, 2019 03:33 UTC