Olympic Medalist Chloe Kim Forced to Restrict Social Media Access

The snowboarder cited "disturbing" messages and fake content as reasons for limiting direct messaging on Instagram.

Mar. 3, 2026 at 7:15am

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USA snowboarder Chloe Kim, a three-time Olympic medalist, announced that she had to restrict access to her Instagram direct messages after receiving concerning content, including fake images and videos. Kim said she needed to protect herself from the disturbing messages and social media activity.

Why it matters

As one of the most recognizable American Olympic athletes, Chloe Kim's experience highlights the challenges high-profile athletes can face with online harassment and the spread of misinformation. Her decision to limit direct access to her social media accounts underscores the need for better protections and support for athletes dealing with these issues.

The details

Kim, who won silver in the halfpipe event at the 2026 Milano Cortina Olympics, took to her Instagram story to inform her followers that she had to turn off direct messaging due to "fake and very disturbing images/videos." She did not specify the exact nature of the content, but noted that she needed to protect herself. This comes after a fake photo of Kim and her boyfriend, Cleveland Browns player Myles Garrett, getting engaged went viral on social media.

  • On February 28, 2026, Chloe Kim announced the restrictions on her Instagram direct messages.

The players

Chloe Kim

A USA snowboarder and three-time Olympic medalist, including a silver medal at the 2026 Milano Cortina Games.

Myles Garrett

A player for the Cleveland Browns who is Chloe Kim's boyfriend.

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What they’re saying

“I unfortunately had to turn off my DMs due to people taking things too far. I've seen too many fake and very disturbing images/videos and I need to protect myself.”

— Chloe Kim

The takeaway

Chloe Kim's experience highlights the growing challenges high-profile athletes face with online harassment and the spread of misinformation. Her decision to limit direct access to her social media accounts underscores the need for better protections and support for athletes dealing with these issues.