How to Delete Instagram Account Permanently
Instagram has become a central part of many people’s daily lives, but for various reasons, some users decide to delete their accounts permanently. Whether it’s for privacy concerns, a digital detox, or simply wanting to step away from social media, permanently deleting your Instagram account is a straightforward process when you follow the right steps.
Why You Might Want to Delete Instagram Account
- Privacy Concerns – Instagram collects a lot of data, and many users prefer to take control of their personal information.
- Social Media Fatigue – Some users find themselves spending too much time scrolling and want a fresh start.
- Security Reasons – Concerns about hacking and online security can lead users to delete their accounts.
- Account Misuse or Hacking – If an account is compromised, some prefer to remove it permanently rather than recover it.
Things to Consider Before Deleting Your Instagram Account
Before you permanently delete Instagram account, keep these points in mind:
- Once deleted, you cannot recover your account.
- Your photos, videos, followers, and messages will be lost permanently.
- You may want to download a copy of your Instagram data before proceeding.
- If you want a break but might return, consider deactivating instead of deleting.
How to Download Your Instagram Data Before Deleting
To ensure you don’t lose important memories, follow these steps to download your Instagram data:
- Open the Instagram app or go to Instagram’s website.
- Tap on your profile icon in the bottom right.
- Select Settings and go to Privacy and Security.
- Under Data Download, click Request Download.
- Enter your email address and select Download Data.
- You will receive an email with a link to download your Instagram data.
How to Permanently Delete Instagram Account
Follow these steps to permanently remove your Instagram profile:
Step 1: Go to the Instagram Account Deletion Page
Instagram does not allow account deletion from the mobile app. You must visit the Instagram account deletion page in a web browser.
Step 2: Log into Your Instagram Account
Enter your credentials and log in to the account you want to delete.
Step 3: Choose a Reason for Deletion
Instagram will ask why you want to delete your account. Choose an appropriate reason from the drop-down menu.
Step 4: Re-enter Your Password
To confirm your identity, Instagram requires you to enter your password again.
Step 5: Permanently Delete Your Account
Click on Delete [Your Username] to finalize the deletion. Once confirmed, your account will be scheduled for permanent deletion after 30 days.
How to Deactivate Your Instagram Account Instead of Deleting
If you’re unsure about permanently deleting your account, you can temporarily deactivate it instead.
- Log in to Instagram via a web browser.
- Click on your profile icon and go to Edit Profile.
- Scroll down and select Temporarily disable my account.
- Choose a reason from the dropdown menu.
- Re-enter your password and confirm.
Deactivating hides your profile, photos, and comments until you log back in.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Recover My Deleted Instagram Account?
No. Once your Instagram account is permanently deleted, it cannot be recovered.
How Long Does It Take for Instagram to Delete My Account?
Instagram gives users 30 days to change their minds. After that period, the account is permanently deleted.
Can I Use the Same Email or Username After Deletion?
Once deleted, your username and email may not be available for reuse.
What Happens to My Messages and Comments?
All your messages, comments, and likes will be permanently removed and cannot be recovered.
Final Thoughts
Deleting your Instagram account is a big step, and it’s important to understand the consequences before proceeding. If you’re certain about removing your account, following the steps above ensures a smooth deletion process. If you simply need a break, deactivating might be a better alternative.