how to deactivate instagram account

how to deactivate instagram account in 2024

In an age where social media dominates our daily lives, it's no surprise that many people are considering a break or even a complete departure from platforms like Instagram. Whether it's due to concerns about privacy, a need to focus on real-life connections, or simply a desire to reduce screen time, the trend of social media detox is here to stay. If you're contemplating cutting ties with Instagram, this guide will help you through the process of either permanently deleting your account or temporarily deactivating it.

Understanding the Difference: Deleting vs. Deactivating Your Instagram Account

Before diving into the step-by-step process, it's crucial to understand the difference between deleting and deactivating your Instagram account.

Permanently Deleting Your Account:
When you delete your Instagram account, you are opting for a permanent solution. This means that after a 30-day deactivation period, your account, along with all your photos, comments, likes, and followers, will be erased permanently. Instagram allows this 30-day window to give users a chance to reconsider their decision. If you don't log back into your account within these 30 days, your account will be gone for good.

Deactivating Your Account:
On the other hand, deactivating your Instagram account is more like pressing pause. Your account will be hidden from other users, and your profile, photos, comments, and likes will remain intact. However, none of this information will be visible to others during the deactivation period. The key advantage of deactivation is that you can reactivate your account at any time simply by logging back in, and all your data will be restored exactly as it was.

Steps to Permanently Delete Instagram Using the Mobile App

If you’ve decided to take the plunge and delete your Instagram account permanently, here’s how to do it using the mobile app:

1. Access the Settings Menu:
• Start by opening the Instagram app on your phone.
• Navigate to your profile by tapping the profile icon at the bottom right of the screen.
• Tap the three horizontal lines (Menu) at the top right to open the settings menu.
• From the drop-down list, select Settings and privacy.
  
  
  
2. Go to Accounts Center:
• In the Settings and privacy section, tap on Accounts Center.
• This section is where you manage all the accounts linked to your Instagram, including account ownership and control.
  
  
  
3. Account Ownership and Control:
• Within Accounts Center, select Personal details.
• Tap on Account ownership and control, which will take you to a page where you can choose between deactivation or deletion of your account.
  
  
  
4. Initiate Deletion:
• Select the account you want to delete.
• Tap on Delete account, then tap Continue to proceed.
• Instagram will ask you to re-enter your password for security purposes.
  
  
  
5. Confirm Deletion:
• After entering your password, you will be asked to choose a reason for deleting your account from a list of options.
• Once you’ve selected your reason, tap Continue.
• Your account will now be set for deletion, and Instagram will deactivate it for 30 days. If you don’t log in during this period, your account will be permanently deleted.

Steps to Deactivate Instagram Using the Mobile App

If you’re not quite ready to say goodbye to Instagram forever and would prefer to deactivate your account temporarily, follow these steps:

1. Open the Settings Menu:
• Just like in the deletion process, open the Instagram app and navigate to your profile.
• Tap the Menu icon at the top right and select Settings and privacy.
2. Navigate to Accounts Center:
• Within Settings and privacy, go to Accounts Center.
• Here, you’ll see various options related to your account management.
3. Access Account Ownership and Control:
• In Accounts Center, tap on Personal details.
• Then, tap on Account ownership and control.
4. Initiate Deactivation:
• Choose the account you want to deactivate.
• Select Deactivate account and then tap Continue.
5. Confirm Deactivation:
• You’ll need to re-enter your password for security reasons.
• After entering your password, select a reason for deactivating your account, then tap Continue.
• Your account will now be deactivated, hidden from all other users on Instagram. To reactivate your account, simply log back in.

How to Delete or Deactivate Instagram on Your PC or Mac

Deleting or deactivating your Instagram account on a computer is similar to the process on a mobile app. Here’s how to do it:

1. Log into Your Instagram Account:
• Open your preferred web browser and go to the Instagram website.
• Log in to the account you wish to delete or deactivate.
2. Access Accounts Center:
• Once logged in, click on the More option (usually represented by three horizontal dots or a settings icon) at the bottom left of the screen.
• Go to Settings, then click on Accounts Center.
3. Manage Account Ownership and Control:
• In the Accounts Center, click on Personal details.
• Select Account ownership and control.
4. Choose Deactivation or Deletion:
• Just as with the mobile app, you can choose either Deactivation or Deletion of your account.
• Select the account you want to manage, then click the button next to either Delete account or Deactivate account.
5. Confirm Your Choice:
• Enter your password, select a reason for your action, then click Continue.
• If you’ve chosen to delete your account, it will be deactivated for 30 days before being permanently removed. If you’ve chosen to deactivate it, your account will be hidden until you decide to reactivate it.

Additional Considerations

Privacy and Anti-Tracking Measures: In today’s digital world, it’s important to protect your privacy, especially when using social media platforms. Websites and apps often track your online activity to build a profile of your preferences and behaviors, which can then be used to target you with ads. To safeguard your privacy, consider using tools like AVG AntiTrack, which helps prevent companies from tracking your device by removing cookies and other tracking elements. This not only helps you browse more privately but also reduces the likelihood of seeing targeted ads based on your online activity.

Common FAQs:

Why Can't I Delete My Instagram Account?

Instagram only allows account deletions by the account holder. You must be logged inand know your password to delete your account.

How Long Does It Take to Delete an Instagram Account?

It takes 30 days for an Instagram account to be permanently deleted after the deletionrequest is made.

Can I Delete Instagram Without Logging In?

No, you must be logged in to request deletion.

Can I Delete Instagram Without a Password?

No, you need your password to delete or deactivate your account. If you’ve forgotten your password, you can reset it via the login screen.

How Do I Back Up My Data Before Deleting Instagram?

To back up your Instagram data, go to the Menu > Your Activity > Download Your Information in your Instagram settings. You can then enter your email address, choose the format of the data file, and request a download.

Conclusion

Whether you're ready to quit Instagram permanently or just need a break, knowing how to delete or deactivate your account is essential. The process is straightforward, whether you're using a mobile device or a computer. By understanding the differences between deletion and deactivation, you can make an informed decision that best suits your needs. And if privacy is a concern, consider using anti-tracking tools to protect your online activities from unwanted surveillance.