CYBERSPACE – On Thursday, Instagram took off the gloves and got tough with users who harass others or post what the service considers pornography.

Nobody saw this coming?

According to a post in the company’s help center, Instragam didn’t so much tighten its rules as clarify what it admitted were vague guidelines and state the rules in firmer terms. In addition, the Facebook-owned, image-centric social network reduced the number of infraction warnings it will give from four to one.

Break the rules once, and you’ll get a second chance to mind your manners. Break the rules twice, and your account will be closed.

Instagram never allowed hardcore adult content, and the user community was quick to point out those who didn’t abide by Instagram’s request that its service remain free of “nudity or mature content.”

Now, in a section titled “Post photos and videos that are appropriate for a diverse audience,” site-usage terms are much more specific.

[QUOTE]We know that there are times when people might want to share nude images that are artistic or creative in nature, but for a variety of reasons, we don’t allow nudity on Instagram. This includes photos, videos and some digitally-created content that show sexual intercourse, genitals and close-ups of fully-nude buttocks. It also includes some photos of female nipples, but photos of post-mastectomy scarring and women actively breastfeeding are allowed. Nudity in photos of paintings and sculptures is OK, too.[/QUOTE]

Other posts are prohibited as well.

[QUOTE]Instagram is not a place to support or praise terrorism, organized crime, or hate groups. Offering sexual services, buying or selling illegal or prescription drugs (even if it’s legal in your region), as well as promoting recreational drug use is also not allowed. Remember to always follow the law when offering to sell or buy regulated goods, including firearms, alcohol, and tobacco.[/QUOTE]

The new guidelines also warn against posting “intimate images” of others without their knowledge and permission, as well as credible threats, hate speech, and anything meant to degrade, shame or harass.