Alex Ruben
How to Stop Automated Behavior on Instagram: A Step-by-Step Guide
Are you facing issues with Instagram flagging your account for automated behavior? This guide will help you regain control of your Instagram account by stopping unwanted automated actions such as following, liking, or commenting. By following these straightforward steps, you can ensure your Instagram activity remains authentic and safe.
Before we start, make sure you have the Instagram app installed on your mobile device and your account is accessible. Ensure that you are logged into your account and have a stable internet connection to follow along effectively.
Step 1: Pause All Suspicious Activity
If Instagram has flagged your account for automated behavior, it’s likely due to excessive actions like liking, commenting, or following too quickly. To avoid further restrictions, the best approach is to pause all activities for 24 to 48 hours. This break allows Instagram to reset any flags on your account. During this period, refrain from engaging in any automated actions or using third-party applications that could be triggering these behaviors.
Step 2: Remove Any Third-Party Apps
Using third-party applications to automate actions or track followers can lead to Instagram considering your account as spam. To remove these apps, follow these steps:
- Open the Instagram app on your device.
- Tap on your profile icon at the bottom right corner.
- Tap on the three horizontal lines (menu icon) in the top right corner.
- Select Account Center.
- From there, review and remove any apps that you do not recognize or no longer use.
Step 3: Change Your Password
If your account has been flagged and you haven’t engaged in any automation, it’s possible that your account has been hacked. To secure your account, you should change your password immediately. Here’s how:
- Go to your profile and tap on the three horizontal lines.
- Select Password and Security.
- Tap on the Change Password option.
- Input your current password, then set a new strong password.
Changing your password will lock out any suspicious devices that might be triggering automated behavior on your account.
Step 4: Switch Your Internet Connection
Sometimes, Instagram may flag your connection due to using a public Wi-Fi or a VPN. To resolve this, try the following:
- Switch from Wi-Fi to mobile data and see if the issue persists.
- If you are using a VPN, disable it and try again.
- You can also restart your router to refresh your IP address.
By changing your internet connection, you may prevent Instagram from mistakenly identifying your activity as automated.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
To further streamline your Instagram experience and avoid future issues, consider these tips:
- Engage with your followers naturally; avoid repetitive comments and likes.
- Limit your daily interactions to avoid triggering Instagram’s spam detection.
- Regularly review the apps connected to your Instagram account and remove any that are unnecessary.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you can effectively resolve any automated behavior warnings on Instagram and safeguard your account from restrictions. Remember to maintain natural interactions on the platform and regularly check your account’s security settings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my account gets flagged again?
If your account is flagged again, take immediate action by pausing your activity and reviewing any connected apps. If necessary, change your password again.
Can using automation tools harm my Instagram account?
Yes, using automation tools can lead to your account being flagged or even banned by Instagram. It’s best to engage authentically on the platform.
How can I tell if my account has been hacked?
If you notice unusual activity on your account, such as unfamiliar login locations or changes to your profile, it may have been hacked. Change your password immediately and enable two-factor authentication for added security.