Instagram is one of the most popular social media platforms, with over 2 billion monthly active users. It allows you to share photos and videos, follow friends and influencers, interact with posts, and more.
By default, Instagram accounts are public, meaning anyone can view your profile and posts. However, you can easily make your Instagram account private to control who sees your content.
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make your Instagram account private:
Table of Contents
Why Make Your Instagram Account Private?
There are several reasons why you may want to make your Instagram account private:
- Privacy – A private account gives you more control over who can see your posts. Only approved followers will be able to view your content.
- Avoid spam – Public accounts tend to get more spam comments and messages. A private account can reduce unwanted attention.
- Personal preference – Some people simply feel more comfortable sharing content with only a select group of friends and family.
How to Make Your Instagram Account Private
Making your Instagram account private only takes a few quick steps:
On Mobile
- Open the Instagram app on your mobile device
- Go to your profile by tapping the person icon in the bottom right
- Tap the three horizontal lines (⋮) icon in the top right corner
- Select Settings
- Choose Privacy > Account Privacy
- Toggle the switch next to Private Account to the on (green) position
That’s it! Your account is now private.
On Desktop
You cannot change your privacy settings on Instagram’s desktop site. You must use the mobile app to make your account private.
What Happens When Your Account Is Private
When your Instagram account is set to private:
- Your existing followers will remain, but new followers will need approval
- Only approved followers can see your posts and stories
- Your photos will not appear on the public Instagram feed
- You have control over who can comment on your posts
Essentially, a private account gives you full control over who interacts with your profile and content.
Approving Followers on a Private Account
When your account is private, anyone who wants to follow you must send a follow request.
You’ll receive notifications when you have new requests. To approve or deny requests:
- Go to your profile
- Tap Followers
- Tap Requests at the top
- Review requests and tap Approve or Delete as desired
I recommend looking over profiles carefully before approving followers. This ensures only people you know can access your private content.
Making Your Account Public Again
If you ever want to make your Instagram account public again, it only takes a few seconds:
- Go to your profile
- Tap the ⋮ menu
- Choose Settings
- Select Privacy > Account Privacy
- Toggle the Private Account switch to the off (white) position
And you’re done! Your profile will instantly become public again.
Tips for Private Instagram Accounts
Here are some additional tips for keeping your private Instagram account secure:
- Log out on shared devices – Always log out of your Instagram account on any device you share with others, like a family computer.
- Use strong passwords – Have a complex mix of letters, numbers, and symbols in your Instagram password. Consider using a password manager.
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) – 2FA adds an extra layer of security, requiring both your password and a code sent your phone when logging in.
- Be cautious about tags – If you tag a non-follower in a post, they will still be able to see that post, even if your account is private.
- Review linked accounts – Check that your linked Facebook or other social media accounts have the desired privacy settings.
The Benefits of a Private Instagram
Making your Instagram private has many advantages:
- You control who sees your content
- You avoid spam and unwanted attention
- Your posts stay between you and your connections
- You decide who can follow you or comment on your pics and videos
Essentially, a private account puts you in charge of your Instagram experience.
So if you want more privacy, security, and control over your Instagram, switching to a private account is definitely the way to go. The steps are quick and easy whether you use an iPhone or Android device.
Give it a try and take your Instagram to the next level! Let me know in the comments if you have any other questions.
