Facebook is used by billions of people around the world to connect and share with friends and family. While the vast majority of content on Facebook complies with their Community Standards, sometimes inappropriate or objectionable content can be posted.
If you come across a photo that you believe violates Facebook’s policies, you can easily report it right from Facebook. Here’s how:
On Desktop:
- Click on the photo you want to report.
- In the bottom right corner of the photo, click the downward arrow button.
- Select “Find Support or Report Photo”.
- Choose the option that best describes the issue with the photo.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to submit your report.
On Mobile:
- Tap and hold on the photo to bring up the menu.
- Tap “Report”.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to submit your report.
What happens when you report a photo on Facebook?
When you report a photo, it will be reviewed by someone on Facebook’s Community Operations team. They will check if the photo goes against Facebook’s Community Standards.
There are two potential outcomes from reporting a photo:
- If the photo is found to violate Facebook’s policies, it will be removed. The person who posted it may also face additional consequences from Facebook, such as having their account disabled.
- If the photo does not go against Facebook’s standards, no action will be taken and the photo will stay up.
Facebook says that when deciding whether to remove content, they carefully review reports and aim to get back to people quickly. However, with billions of users, sometimes it can take a bit longer to investigate reports.
What types of photos will be removed by Facebook?
Facebook prohibits photos that:
- Depict nudity or sexual activity
- Are excessively violent or graphic
- Infringe on copyrights or trademarks
- Threaten people
- Reveal personal information like addresses, passwords, or financial information
- Use images of people inappropriately
Essentially, any photo that violates Facebook’s Community Standards is subject to removal if reported.
Some specific examples of photos that can be reported and removed
- Nudity or near nudity – Photos focused on or revealing excessively exposed skin or cleavage.
- Sexual activity – Images depicting intercourse, masturbation, or sexual foreplay.
- Violent or graphic content – Images of physical harm, animal abuse, blood, gore, or mutilation.
- Hate speech – Images supporting racist, sexist, homophobic, or abusive ideology.
- Harassment – Photos shared to ridicule, demean or embarrass someone.
- Unauthorized sharing of personal images – Photos shared without the consent of the person depicted.
If you come across a photo on Facebook that falls into one of the above categories, report it right away.
What if my photo was removed and I don’t think it broke the rules?
Facebook recognizes there may be times when content gets removed in error. If you believe your photo was wrongly taken down, you can appeal the decision.
To appeal a removed photo:
- Go to the Help Center
- Search for “My photo was removed”
- Follow the on-screen instructions to submit an appeal
Facebook will take another look at your photo and make a final determination if it should be restored. Keep in mind appeals may take some time to get a response, so be patient.
Will I get in trouble if I report photos frequently?
No, Facebook encourages people to report any content that appears to violate their rules. There are no penalties for submitting multiple reports. In fact, it helps Facebook identify and remove objectionable content faster.
That said, intentionally submitting false or fabricated reports is prohibited. But as long as you are honestly reporting content you believe breaks Facebook’s rules, there is no limit or consequences.
How to avoid posting inappropriate photos
While Facebook has methods to report inappropriate photos, the best way to avoid issues is to be cautious about what kinds of photos you post in the first place. Here are some tips:
- If you would not be comfortable showing the photo to your family members or boss, reconsider posting it.
- Avoid posting revealing or risque photos.
- Ask people before tagging them or posting photos including them.
- Use privacy settings to limit who can see your photos.
- Do not share personal information or passwords in photos.
- Be respectful and do not use images to attack, shame, or humiliate.
Following these guidelines will help ensure your photos comply with Facebook’s policies.
Conclusion
Facebook strives to create a safe and respectful environment for its global community. While most posts are positive, occasionally inappropriate content can be shared.
If you see a concerning photo, reporting it is easy to do right from Facebook’s app and website. Reports are reviewed to determine if the photo violates standards. Offending content gets removed, while photos found not to be in breach remain on the platform.
By being vigilant and reporting unacceptable photos, you can help make sure Facebook continues to connect people in a positive way.