I. Introduction
With over 1 billion active users, Instagram has become a popular social media platform for sharing photos, videos, and connecting with people worldwide. However, like any other social media platform, Instagram also has challenges with privacy.
Many users may not know how to make their account private, which can lead to unwanted followers and exposure. This article will provide a comprehensive guide with step-by-step instructions on how to make Instagram private, avoid tagging locations, blocking unwanted followers, removing questionable content and followers, and keeping up with updates.
II. Adjusting privacy settings
The first and most important step in ensuring privacy on Instagram is to adjust your privacy settings.
- Go to your profile and click on the three lines at the top right corner.
- Click on “Settings” at the bottom of the page.
- Click on “Privacy,” and then select “Account Privacy.”
- Turn on the “Private Account” option.
Once you have turned on the private account option, your account will be visible only to the people you approve as followers.
III. Blocking unwanted followers
If someone is following your account, and you do not want them to have access to your content, you can block them. Here’s how:
- Go to the profile of the follower you want to block.
- Click on the three dots next to their username.
- Click “Block,” then confirm your decision.
When you block an account, they will not be able to follow you or view your profile.
IV. Hiding Instagram stories from particular followers
If you have followers that you prefer not to share Instagram stories with, you can hide your Instagram stories from them. Here’s how:
- Go to your profile and click on the three lines at the top right corner.
- Click on “Settings” at the bottom of the page.
- Click on “Privacy,” and then select “Story.”
- Click “Hide Story From,” then select the followers whom you want to hide your stories from.
The hide option is essential, mainly if you do not want to offend someone by blocking them on Instagram.
V. Avoiding tagging locations
Most Instagram users find it thrilling to share their locations on Instagram, but this activity can be unsafe when overdone. There are risks associated with sharing your location, which is why many users prefer to avoid tagging their locations. Here’s how:
- Open the Instagram app and upload a photo like usual, but before publishing.
- Click on the location tab and swipe down to ‘Add Location Manually’.
- Add the name of the location you are tagging without selecting it from the options.
- Toggle off “Name of the Location.”
By avoiding tagging locations, you can minimize the risk of a sensitive situation.
VI. Removing questionable content
To ensure that your account remains private and secure, regularly review your content. If you have any questionable posts, it’s time to get rid of them. Here’s how:
- Go to the post that you want to delete.
- Tap on the three dots on the right corner of the photo or video.
- Click on “Delete” and select “Delete” again to confirm your decision.
By keeping your content clean, you can minimize the risks associated with compromising content.
VII. Removing questionable followers
Make it a habit to review your follower’s list regularly. If you find any account that could compromise your privacy, remove them. Here’s how:
- Go to the follower’s profile.
- Tap on the three dots on the right corner of the profile.
- Click on “Remove Follower.”
- A pop-up window will appear, click “Remove” to confirm your decision.
Removing questionable followers will help maintain a safe and secure account.
VIII. Keeping up with Instagram’s updates
Instagram is continuously updating its platform, and keeping up with these updates can ensure that your account is as secure as possible. Here’s how:
- Enable automatic updates for the Instagram app in your device’s app store.
- Follow Instagram’s official account to stay updated on changes to the platform.
- Read Instagram’s blog to learn more about new features and updates.
Keeping up with Instagram’s updates will help you keep your account secure and up-to-date.
IX. Conclusion
In conclusion, making your Instagram account private comes down to a few simple steps. Adjusting your privacy settings, blocking unwanted followers, hiding Instagram Stories from particular followers, avoiding tagging locations, removing questionable content and followers, and keeping up with Instagram’s updates. By following these steps, you can maintain your privacy while enjoying the benefits of Instagram.
However, it is important to note that Instagram’s safety is not entirely foolproof. Therefore, it is best to stay alert and cautious when sharing personal details and information online, even with your private account settings turned on.