At A Glance: To delete your Instagram account, the process varies depending on the device you’re using. On Android, open a mobile browser and go to Instagram’s account deletion page. Log in, choose a reason for deletion, re-enter your password, and confirm. On iOS, open the Instagram app, tap your profile picture, and navigate to Settings > Help > Help Center > Managing Your Account > Delete Your Account, then follow the on-screen instructions. On the web, open a browser, go to Instagram.com, login, and navigate to the account deletion page. Choose a reason, re-enter your password, and confirm the deletion.
Instagram is one of the most popular social media platforms, but there may come a time when you want to delete your Instagram account. Whether it’s for a digital detox, privacy concerns, or another reason, this step-by-step guide on “How to Delete an Instagram Account” is your go-to help center for deleting or deactivating your Instagram account.
What is Instagram?
Instagram is a social media platform that allows users to share photos, videos, and stories with their followers. Launched in 2010, it has become one of the most popular social networking sites, boasting over a billion active users worldwide. The platform offers various features like filters, direct messaging (DMs), and the ability to follow other users, making it a versatile tool for personal and professional use. Whether you’re looking to showcase your photography, stay connected with friends and family, or build a brand, Instagram provides a visually engaging way to communicate and interact online.
Why do You want to Delete Your Instagram Account?
Before you go ahead and hit the delete button, it’s crucial to understand why you want to delete your Instagram account. Here are some reasons you might consider:
- Mental Health: Constant comparison and the need for validation can take a toll on your mental health.
- Productivity: If you find yourself scrolling more than being productive, it might be time to reconsider your priorities.
- Privacy Concerns: With data breaches becoming more common, you might be concerned about your online privacy. If you’re also thinking about your privacy on other platforms, you might find our guide on how to delete your Snapchat account useful.
How to Delete an Instagram Account
Delete Your Account On Android
Step 1: Open the Instagram App on your Android device and log in to your account.
Step 2: Tap the profile icon at the bottom right corner.
Step 3: Tap the three horizontal lines at the top right, then tap ” Settings and Privacy”
Step 4: Go to the account settings page and tap on “Account Center”
Step 5: On the account center page click on “Personal Details”
Step 6: In personal details select “Account Ownership” from three options. Tap on “Deactivation or Deletion”
Step 7: Choose delete account and click continue.
Step 8: Choose a reason from the dropdown menu.
Step 9: Input your password when prompted.
Step 10:Tap the “Continue” button.
Step 11: Confirm your decision when prompted.
Bonus Step: Before starting, go to “Settings,” then “Privacy and Security,” and tap “Request Download” to back up your data.
Delete Your Account On iOS
Step 1: Launch the Instagram app on your iOS device. log in to your account.
Step 2: Tap the profile icon at the bottom right corner.
Step 3: Tap the three horizontal lines at the top right, then tap ” Settings and Privacy”
Step 4: Go to the account settings page and tap on “Account Center”
Step 5: On the account center page click on “Personal Details”
Step 6: In personal details select “Account Ownership” from three options.
Step 7: Tap on “Deactivation or Deletion”
Step 8: Choose delete account and click continue.
Step 8: Choose a reason from the dropdown menu.
Step 9: Input your password when prompted.
Step 10: Tap the “Continue” button.
Step 11: Confirm your decision when prompted.
Delete Your Account On the Web
Step 1: Open your preferred web browser on your computer or laptop.
Step 2: Type “www.instagram.com” into the address bar and hit Enter.
Step 3: Log in to your Instagram account.
Step 4: Click on your profile picture at the top right corner.
Step 5: Click on the three horizontal lines to open Settings.
Step 5: On the account center page click on “Personal Details”
Step 6: In personal details select “Account Ownership” from three options. Tap on “Account Ownership”
Step 7: Click on “Deactivation or Deletion”.
Step 8: Choose the account which you want to delete.
Step 9: Choose delete account and click continue.
Step 10: Input your password when prompted.
Step 10: Tap the “Continue” button.
Step 11: Confirm your decision when prompted.
How Can You Reactivate Your Instagram Account?
Step 1: Wait for the Cooling Period.
Step 2: Open the Instagram Application or Website.
Step 3: Enter Login Credentials.
Step 4: Solve the CAPTCHA (If Required).
Step 5: Reactivation Confirmation.
Step 6: Confirm Reactivation.
Step 7: Access Restored.
How to Temporarily Deactivate Your Instagram Account?
Step 1: Open the Instagram Application and log in to your account.
Step 2: Go to Your Profile.
Step 3: Access Settings.
Step 4: Navigate to Account.
Step 5: Find ‘Temporarily Disable My Account.’
Step 6: Choose a Reason.
Step 7: Confirm with Password.
Step 8: Temporarily Disable Account.
Step 9: Final Confirmation.
Backup Your Data
Before you close your account, it’s wise to back up your data. Instagram allows you to download all your shared moments, messages, and other account details. To back up:
- Go to Settings: Open Instagram settings.
- Privacy and Security: Navigate to ‘Privacy and Security.’
- Request Download: Under ‘Data Download,’ click on ‘Request Download.’
- Email: Enter the email where you’d like to receive the download link.
Alternatives to Deleting Instagram Account Permanently
If you’re not entirely sure about deleting your account, Instagram offers alternatives:
- Deactivate Temporarily: This hides your profile, photos, and posts until you decide to reactivate.
- Switch to Private Account: This limits who can see your posts and interact with you.
FAQs
Can I recover my data after deleting my Instagram account?
No, once your account is permanently deleted, all your data will be lost.
How long does it take to close an Instagram account?
It takes 30 days for your account to be permanently closed after the initial request.
What’s the difference between deactivating and deleting an Instagram account?
Deactivating your account hides it temporarily while deleting it removes it permanently.
Can I delete my Instagram account from the mobile app?
You can temporarily pause your account from the mobile app, but for permanent deletion, you’ll need to use a web browser.
What happens to my followers when I deactivate my account?
Your followers won’t be able to see your profile, posts, or stories while your account is paused.
Can I reactivate my Instagram account after deleting it?
You can reactivate your account within 30 days of deletion. After that, it’s permanently removed.
Do I lose my username if I delete my Instagram account?
Yes, once you delete your account, the username becomes unavailable for use.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re pondering over the decision to delete your Instagram account permanently or temporarily deactivate it, this step-by-step guide aims to be your go-to help center. We’ve covered how to delete an Instagram account on Android, iOS, and via a web browser. We’ve also delved into how to reactivate your account if you change your mind within 30 days.
If you want to close your Instagram account permanently, remember that this action is irreversible. Your username will become unavailable, and all your Instagram data will be permanently removed. On the other hand, if you choose to temporarily deactivate your account, you can always reactivate it, and your Instagram profile will be as you left it.
So, whether you want to permanently delete your account or temporarily disable it, this guide provides you with all the steps to delete or deactivate your Instagram account effectively. Thank you for reading, and whatever you decide, make sure it’s the best fit for your audience and personal goals.
