Instagram has become one of the most widely used
social networks; however, individuals sometimes choose to discontinue using the service due to a variety of reasons, such as privacy, personal, and productivity-related issues. Permanently deleting your Instagram account will most likely be your best option if you no longer wish to utilize the service. In this guide, you will learn how to permanently delete your Instagram account, as well as the repercussions of doing so and some crucial factors to take into account before doing so.
Difference Between Deleting and Deactivating an Instagram Account
Before proceeding to delete your account, you should learn about permanent account deletion and temporary account deactivation.
Permanent Deletion:
When you permanently delete your Instagram account, all your data, including photos, videos, followers, comments, and messages, will be removed forever. The system will not allow you to get your account back after you delete it.
Temporary Deactivation:
Deactivation hides your profile, photos, and activity temporarily. The user can restore their account at any time by returning to the site.
When you decide to stop using Instagram, permanent deletion is the best way to get rid of your account.
Things to Do Before Deleting Your Instagram Account
Before permanently deleting your account on Instagram, consider taking the following steps:
- Download your data (photos, videos, messages).
- Let your followers know if required.
- Disconnect any linked accounts or apps.
- Remember your login information.
Back up your data so that you can keep any significant memories and items as well.
How to Delete an Instagram Account Permanently (Step-by-Step)
Please follow these steps to remove your permanent Instagram account:
1. Visit Instagram & Click on Sign In to Log In to Your Account
Enter your username and password to access Instagram in a browser (not a mobile device), as the app does not allow you to delete your account on certain compatible devices.
2. Go to the 'Delete My Account' Page
From your profile, open up the ‘Profile’ link, after which you will see your settings at the bottom left of the screen. Select the option: ‘Delete My Account.
3. Select Reason for Deleting
Select a reason for deleting your Instagram account from the drop-down box provided. You will need to fill out any required fields prior to clicking on submit.
4. Confirm Your Password
At this stage, you will need to retype/verify your password as validation of identity.
5. Click 'Delete My Account Permanently.
After confirming your password, you will see a button to delete your account permanently. By completing this process, you take control of/determine when Instagram removes your account.
What Happens After You Delete Your Instagram Account
If you have requested a deletion of your account, then Instagram will take approximately 30 days from the time of the request in order to delete your account. Until this 30-day period has passed, your account will not be visible to the public.
After deleting an account:
- Your profile disappears forever.
- All pictures, videos, and chats will be deleted.
- You cannot retrieve your account after deletion.
- You might not be able to use the same username again right away.
Reasons People Delete Their Instagram Accounts
Users frequently delete their accounts on Instagram for several reasons, including:
- Concerns about their privacy.
- Limitations on time spent using social media.
- Distracting users from being productive.
- Starting fresh with a brand new account.
- Preserving their private information.
Deleting Instagram may enhance your ability to concentrate and improve your overall digital health.
Alternative Option: Deactivate Instead of Delete
If you are unsure about permanent deletion, you can temporarily deactivate your account. This allows you to take a break without losing your data. You can reactivate anytime by logging in again.
Conclusion
If you want to completely erase any presence on
Instagram, learning how to delete an account permanently is essential. Before deleting an Instagram account, please remember that all data should have been downloaded prior to doing so, and understand the implications of doing so. You will lose everything if you delete your account permanently; therefore, think through your choice before deciding to delete. If you only need to take a break from an account for a short time, it's probably better to deactivate it or put it in "sleep mode" than to delete it completely.
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