Looking for how to delete an Instagram account permanently? You are in the right place. If you need a short break from social media, or if this is your permanent solution, this guide will explain everything.
Before we proceed with the steps to delete your Instagram account, you should know certain facts. With deletion, all content you post, such as photos, videos, comments, likes, and followers, will be deleted and permanently erased so that they cannot be restored in the future. Moreover, it will also not be easy to use your old username in other applications since it is no longer accessible.
Why Delete Your Instagram Account?
Many people choose to delete their Instagram accounts for various reasons:
- Social media detox: Logging out in case of stress levels or any other reason that would need a break from the group.
- Privacy concerns: Are you concerned about how Instagram deals with your information?
- Too much time spent on the app: As a measure to minimize hindrances that distract workers on the production line.
As much as this may be the case, it is important not to ruin any future chances by deleting an Instagram account.
Two Options: Temporary Deactivation vs. Permanent Deletion
Before you go ahead and delete your Instagram account, it’s essential to understand that you have two options:
- Deactivate your Instagram account: Click ‘temporarily deactivate your account ‘and return whenever you wish.
- Permanently delete your Instagram account: Delete all your photos, clips, and friends. Additionally, delete all your followers.
Temporary Deactivation: Step-by-Step Guide
- Log in to Instagram on your phone or computer using a web browser (not the app).
- Go to your profile by clicking the icon in the top right corner.
- Click on Edit Profile.
- Please scroll down and click Temporarily Disable My Account.
- Select a reason for disabling and re-enter your password.
- Click Temporarily Disable Account.
Note: You can reactivate your account anytime by logging back in.
How to Permanently Delete Your Instagram Account
Deleting your account is more complicated than deactivating it. Follow these steps for a smooth process:
- Log in to your Instagram account on a mobile browser or computer.
- Go to the “Delete Your Account” page by visiting https://www.instagram.com/accounts/remove/request/permanent/ or clicking on the link in the Instagram Help Center.
- Select a reason for deleting your account from the drop-down menu.
- Re-enter your password to confirm your identity.
- Click on “Permanently delete my account.”
Once deleted, all your data is gone forever and cannot be recovered.
Once you submit your request, your Instagram account will be deactivated, and it will take 30 days before it is reactivated. Your account will remain invisible to other members; however, should you change your mind, you are free to use it at any time. Your account will also be terminated after 30 days, and if you wish to continue using Instagram, you will have to create a new account.
What Happens After Deleting Your Instagram Account?
- These include the profile and photo albums, comments, wall posts, feeds, likes, followers, and messages – all will be erased.
- You will not be able to use your account ever again; you won’t be able to share content that you posted before again.
- Your username will also be erased, making it impossible for other users to use the same name and identity.
Final Thoughts
Once you delete your account, it cannot be recovered, so ensure that you want it done. However, if you just need a break, it would be better to deactivate your account. If it is for the sake of your mental health or just trying to rebound from social media, this guide will make the process a breeze.
However, do note that once the account is deleted, it cannot be undone, and you will not be able to recover your data. So, if you are still using this account, you should download all data from it before proceeding with the deletion.
