Instagram has become one of the world’s most popular social media platforms. With over a billion active users, it offers a space to share their photos, videos, and stories and connect with others. However, there may come a time when you decide to take a break from Instagram or delete your account entirely. Whether it’s due to privacy concerns, digital detox, or simply wanting to move on from social media, this guide will walk you through the steps to permanently delete your Instagram account. We’ll also discuss why people delete their accounts and what happens after you take that step.
Why You Might Want to Delete Your Instagram Account
Before diving into the steps, it’s essential to understand why people might choose to delete their Instagram accounts. Some common reasons include:
- Privacy Concerns: like many other social media platforms, Instagram collects significant personal data. Some users are concerned about how this data is being used or shared.
- Mental Health: The constant comparison and pressure to keep up appearances on social media can take a toll on mental health. People often delete their Instagram accounts to take a break or disconnect from the toxicity of social media.
- Time Management: Social media platforms are designed to keep users engaged, but this can sometimes lead to time-wasting. People delete their accounts to reclaim their time and focus on other aspects of life.
- Security Issues: If your account is compromised or hacked, you may delete it to prevent further risks.
- Personal Reasons: For some, the choice to delete their Instagram account is purely individual, whether that’s to focus on more meaningful interactions offline or to reduce distractions.
Whatever your reason, deleting your account can be a way to regain control of your digital life.
Types of Instagram Account Deletion
Before we discuss how to delete your Instagram account, it’s important to know that there are two options: temporary deactivation and permanent deletion.
- Temporarily Deactivate Your Instagram Account
If you want to delete your account entirely but need a break, you can temporarily deactivate your Instagram account. When you deactivate your account, your profile, photos, comments, and likes are hidden, but Instagram doesn’t permanently remove them. You can log back into your account at any time to reactivate it.
- Permanently Delete Your Instagram Account
If you’re sure that you want to delete your account permanently, you can do so by following a specific process. This option will permanently erase your profile, photos, videos, comments, and likes from Instagram. You cannot recover any of that information once the account is deleted.
In this article, we will focus on permanently deleting your Instagram account.
Steps to Permanently Delete Your Instagram Account
Instagram does not allow you to delete your account directly from the app. Instead, you must use a web browser (on desktop or mobile) to delete your account. Follow these steps to delete your Instagram account:
Step 1: Backup Your Instagram Data
Before you delete your account, it’s a good idea to download a copy of your Instagram data, including your photos, videos, and messages. Instagram allows you to request a complete archive of your data.
Here’s how you can back up your data:
- Open Instagram on your desktop or mobile browser.
- Go to your profile by clicking on your profile icon.
- To go to settings, click the three horizontal lines (menu) in the top right corner (for mobile) or the gear icon (for desktop).
- In the settings menu, select Privacy and Security.
- Scroll down to Data Download and click Request Download.
- Enter your email address and Instagram password to receive a copy of your data.
- Instagram will email you a download link. It may take up to 48 hours to receive the link.
Once you have downloaded your data, you can delete your Instagram account.
Step 2: Visit the Instagram Account Deletion Page
To permanently delete your account, visit Instagram’s Account Deletion page. Here’s how to access it:
- Log into Instagram via a web browser (on desktop or mobile).
- Go to the Instagram Account Deletion page:
You’ll need to be logged into your account to access this page.
Step 3: Select a Reason for Deleting Your Account
Instagram will ask you why you want to delete your account. There are several options to choose from, such as:
- I have privacy concerns
- I don’t find Instagram useful
- I spend too much time on Instagram
- I have another account I want to use
- Other reasons (you can type in your specific reason)
You can select the most appropriate reason, but it’s worth noting that the reason doesn’t impact the deletion process. Instagram uses this information for research and to improve the platform.
Step 4: Re-enter Your Password
Instagram will ask you to re-enter your password to confirm that you are making the request to delete your account. This is a security measure to ensure that no one else deletes your account without your permission.
Step 5: Click “Permanently Delete My Account”
After you’ve chosen a reason and confirmed your password, the final step is to click the red button that says “Permanently Delete My Account.”
Once you do this, your Instagram account will be scheduled for permanent deletion. If you change your mind, Instagram will give you a 30-day grace period.
Step 6: Confirm Deletion Within 30 Days (Optional)
Instagram gives you 30 days to reconsider your decision. If you log into your account during these 30 days, your deletion request will be cancelled, and your account will be reactivated.
If you don’t log in during the 30 days, Instagram will permanently delete your account, and you will lose access to all your data. After 30 days, you cannot recover your account or any associated data.
What Happens After You Delete Your Instagram Account?
Once your account is permanently deleted, the following will happen:
- Your profile will be erased: All your photos, comments, likes, and followers will be permanently deleted.
- No recovery option: Once deleted, you cannot recover your account or any associated data. You will also lose access to any direct messages or other content related to your account.
- The account username will be freed up: If you ever create a new Instagram account, you can choose the same username, assuming it’s still available.
- No more notifications: You will no longer receive notifications or messages from Instagram related to that account.
Can You Delete Your Instagram Account on Mobile?
Currently, Instagram does not allow account deletion directly through its mobile app. However, following the above steps, you can delete your account using a mobile browser. Instagram’s official stance is that account deletion is only possible through the website.
Deleting Instagram vs. Deactivating Instagram: Which Option is Right for You?
As mentioned earlier, there are two ways to leave Instagram: permanent deletion and temporary deactivation. The right option for you depends on your goals.
- Temporary Deactivation: This is a good choice if you need a break from Instagram but plan to return later. Your photos and profile will be hidden, but your data will remain intact. You can reactivate your account by logging back in.
- Permanent Deletion: Choose this option if you’re sure you no longer want to use Instagram and are ready to let go of your content and connections. Be mindful that this action is irreversible.
Alternatives to Deleting Your Instagram Account
If you are hesitant to delete your account entirely but still want to reduce your Instagram usage, consider these alternatives:
- Limit Your Notifications: Turn off push notifications to avoid constant reminders of Instagram activity.
- Set Screen Time Limits: Use your phone’s built-in screen time tools to limit your daily time on Instagram.
- Archive Posts: Instead of deleting posts, you can archive them so they are hidden from your profile but still accessible later.
- Disable Comments or Tags: If you’re concerned about negative feedback, you can adjust your settings to turn off comments or tags on specific posts.
Conclusion
If you decide to delete your Instagram account, the process is straightforward but permanent. Whether you’re concerned about privacy and mental health or want to step away from social media, deleting your account can give you the space and control you need.
However, before you take the final step, consider backing up your data and weighing your options. If unsure, you can temporarily deactivate your account before committing to deletion.
Ultimately, the choice is yours. Whatever you decide, remember that there are many ways to balance your digital life, whether through deleting your account, taking a break, or adjusting your usage habits.
you may also read: Get Your Instagram Username in Seconds with Our Tool