Are you looking to delete your Instagram account permanently? Whether you’re concerned about privacy, need to reduce distractions, or simply want a break from social media, permanently removing your Instagram account could be the right choice. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to permanently delete your Instagram account using the latest method.
Unlike temporarily deactivating your account, which only hides your profile and content, this method ensures that your profile, photos, videos, comments, and followers will be deleted for good. If you’re experiencing privacy concerns, feel like Instagram is a time-waster, or simply want to boost your productivity, deleting your account may be the best solution.
You can either deactivate your account (temporarily) or delete Instagram permanently. This blog will focus on the permanent deletion method. However, if you’re looking for a guide on how to remove an account from Instagram without deleting it, that will be covered in another tutorial—similar to how I previously explained removing an account from Facebook using Facebook Auto Reporter. Stay tuned for that update!
Steps to Delete Instagram Account Permanently
Permanently deleting your Instagram account is irreversible, so it’s essential to be certain about your decision. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
1. Back Up Your Instagram Data
Before deleting your Instagram account, it’s a good idea to download a copy of your data, including photos, videos, comments, and messages. Once your account is deleted, you won’t have access to Instagram’s data download tool, so secure your content now. To do this, go to your account settings, select “Download Your Data,” and follow the instructions.
2. Visit the Delete Your Account Page
To start the deletion process, go to Instagram’s Delete Your Account page. Make sure you’re logged into the account you wish to delete.
3. Select a Reason for Deletion
Instagram will ask why you’re choosing to delete your account. Select the most relevant reason from the dropdown menu, and re-enter your account password to confirm.
4. Confirm Account Deletion
After selecting your reason and entering your password, the option to permanently delete your Instagram account will appear. Click the Delete Account button to finalize your decision.
How to Delete an Instagram Account on an iPhone
If you prefer to delete your Instagram account through the mobile app, follow these simple steps:
- Open the Instagram app on your iPhone.
- Tap your profile picture at the bottom right to navigate to your profile.
- Tap the three lines in the top right corner, then select Settings.
- Scroll down and tap Account, then select Delete Account.
- Choose the reason for deleting your account, re-enter your password, and tap Delete Account to confirm.
The process is similar on other devices, so you can use these steps whether you’re on an Android or iPhone.
Check out how to Automate Facebook Multiple Group Posting with the Facebook Auto Poster, an extension developed to help streamline your online tasks.
What Happens After You Delete Your Instagram Account?
When you delete your Instagram account permanently, your profile, photos, videos, comments, likes, and followers will be removed permanently. Instagram will retain your data for 30 days after the request in case you change your mind. If you log in during this period, you can cancel the deletion request and restore your account.
However, it may take up to 90 days for Instagram to complete the full deletion process from their servers. Even after 90 days, some backup copies of your content might remain on their systems for legal purposes or disaster recovery.
For more information, check out Instagram’s Help Center here.
Differences Between Deactivating and Deleting Instagram
Some users may only want a temporary break from Instagram instead of permanently removing their accounts. In such cases, you can deactivate your account instead of deleting it.
- Deactivating: Temporarily hides your profile, photos, comments, and likes. You can reactivate your account by logging back in.
- Deleting: Permanently remove your account, and all data will be lost after 30 days. Once deleted, it cannot be recovered.
If you’re unsure about permanently deleting your account, you might want to try deactivating it first to see if it meets your needs.
Final Thoughts on Deleting Your Instagram Account
Choosing to delete your Instagram account permanently is a significant decision, especially considering the loss of all your content. If you’re sure about removing your account, following the steps above will guide you through the process quickly and easily.