Hustler publishes various media including magazines, websites, books, DVDs, and streaming services. In November 2017, Instagram removed posts containing images from Hustler's "Beaver Hunt" event featuring contestants dressed in suggestive clothing. After an appeal was rejected, it issued a press release describing the ban as "censorship". Following further takedowns, Flynt Publications President Danny Sabin noted that Instagram had shadowbanned its official account @hustlermagazine to limit engagement. He wrote that despite Instagram's claim of community standards, "selective morality is being applied."
In January 2018, Instagram CEO Kevin Systrom explained how it determines what violates policies. The platform prohibits nudity for safety reasons and prevents users under 18 years old from viewing adult content. Images must be appropriate for all audiences, respectful to fellow users, and follow Community Guidelines. Content may be removed or blocked if it promotes violence, hate speech, self-harm, drug abuse, or other sensitive topics.
However, some argue that such guidelines are vague and inconsistently enforced. Social media platforms often face criticism for censoring conservative voices while allowing liberals to express controversial views. One recent study found that YouTube demonetizes more right-leaning than left-leaning videos. A New York Times editor claimed that Facebook censored his story on sexual harassment allegations against Mark Zuckerberg. Another author reported that her book was banned because she criticized transgender ideology.
Flynt has argued that moderation is politically motivated. In 2017, Hustler ran a satirical story about a man who jerks off in public to protest the lack of free speech. It received over 650,0000 pageviews and was praised by progressives as "brave" and "funny." However, similar stories have been posted without incident. Flynt concluded that "Instagram's censorship appears to be driven by political bias rather than an actual concern for community standards."
Hustler's press release asked Instagram to explain how "nudity" relates to its policies. The company responded that it focuses on the overall context, not individual images. Sabin said he would appeal again if takedowns continue but will not allow Instagram to limit engagement. He noted that Hustler does not promote nudity outside of adult entertainment outlets where users expect it.
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