Blocking on Instagram: A Definitive Guide for a Smoother Feed

So, you’re looking to block someone on Instagram? Let’s cut right to the chase. Blocking someone on Instagram is a straightforward process that effectively prevents them from interacting with your profile. Here’s how you do it:

1. Navigate to the User’s Profile: Find the profile of the person you wish to block. You can do this by searching for their username or tapping on their name from a comment or direct message.
2. Access the Options Menu: Once on their profile, look for the three dots (ellipsis) in the top right corner of the screen. Tap these dots to open the options menu.
3. Select “Block”: In the options menu, you’ll find a “Block” option. Tap on it.
4. Confirm Your Decision: Instagram will ask you to confirm your decision. You’ll likely see two options: “Block [Username]” and “Block [Username] and new accounts they may create.” The second option is more comprehensive, preventing the user from contacting you even if they create a new account. Choose the option that best suits your needs.
5. That’s It! The user is now blocked. They will no longer be able to see your posts, stories, or profile, and they won’t be able to message you.

Blocking someone on Instagram is a powerful tool for managing your online experience and maintaining a positive social media environment. Now, let’s delve into some frequently asked questions to provide a deeper understanding of the implications and nuances of blocking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Blocking on Instagram

Will the person I block know that I’ve blocked them?

No, Instagram does not directly notify someone when you block them. However, they might realize they’ve been blocked when they try to view your profile and can no longer find it or see your content. Their messages to you also won’t deliver. It might be obvious to them if they were actively following or interacting with you previously. The key is, there is no immediate notification from Instagram to the person.

What happens when I block someone on Instagram?

When you block someone on Instagram, several things happen:

• They can no longer see your posts, stories, or reels. Your content becomes invisible to them.
• They can’t view your profile. If they search for your username, your profile won’t appear in their search results or it will appear with no posts, followers, or following.
• They can’t send you direct messages. Any existing conversations with them will remain in your inbox, but they won’t be able to send you new messages.
• They can’t comment on your posts.
• They can’t like your posts.
• You won’t see their posts, stories, or reels either. The block works both ways.
• They are removed from your followers list, and you are removed from theirs.

What’s the difference between blocking and muting on Instagram?

Blocking and muting are two different ways of managing interactions on Instagram.

• Blocking completely cuts off communication between you and another user. As detailed above, they can’t see your content, message you, or interact with you in any way.
• Muting, on the other hand, allows you to stop seeing someone’s posts and stories without them knowing. They can still see your content and interact with you, but you won’t see theirs. It’s a more subtle way to filter your feed.

Can a blocked person still find my account if they search for it?

Generally, no. When someone is blocked, your profile won’t appear in their search results. However, if they know your exact username and try to access your profile directly through a web browser (outside of the Instagram app while logged in), they might see a page that indicates the user is not found or that the content is unavailable. Crucially, they still can’t see your content.

If I block someone, will they be blocked on Facebook as well?

No. Blocking on Instagram does not automatically extend to Facebook, even if your accounts are linked. You would need to block the person separately on Facebook. However, if you are using Instagram’s Accounts Center to manage connected experiences, the platform may suggest blocking them on Facebook too.

Can I unblock someone on Instagram?

Yes, you can unblock someone at any time. To do so:

1. Go to your profile.
2. Tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines) in the top right corner.
3. Select “Settings”.
4. Tap on “Privacy”.
5. Tap on “Blocked Accounts”.
6. You’ll see a list of accounts you’ve blocked. Find the person you want to unblock and tap the “Unblock” button next to their name.

Will someone know if I unblock them?

Instagram does not notify someone when you unblock them. However, they might notice if they try to follow you again or view your profile after a period of being blocked.

Can I block someone who doesn’t follow me?

Yes, you can block anyone on Instagram, regardless of whether they follow you or not. The process is the same as described above.

Can a blocked person see my old comments or likes on mutual friends’ posts?

Yes, a blocked person may still see your past comments and likes on posts made by mutual friends or public accounts. Blocking prevents future interactions, but it doesn’t retroactively erase previous activity. This is because those comments and likes are associated with the post itself, not with your profile’s direct visibility to the blocked person.

If I block someone and then unblock them, will they automatically start following me again?

No. Unblocking someone does not automatically re-establish a following relationship. If the person wants to follow you again, they will need to manually request to follow you (if your account is private) or simply follow you (if your account is public).

How do I block someone from creating a new account to harass me?

When you select the option to “Block [Username] and new accounts they may create”, Instagram uses various signals to identify and block new accounts potentially created by the same person. While not foolproof, this feature significantly reduces the likelihood of harassment from new accounts associated with the blocked individual. Instagram does not disclose the exact algorithms used to identify these accounts.

Is blocking the best solution for dealing with harassment or bullying on Instagram?

Blocking can be a very effective tool for dealing with harassment or bullying. However, it’s not always the only solution. You can also:

• Report the user to Instagram. If someone is violating Instagram’s Community Guidelines, you can report them. Instagram will investigate and take action if necessary.
• Restrict the user. Restricting someone is a less drastic measure than blocking. When you restrict someone, their comments on your posts are only visible to them, and you won’t receive notifications about their messages.
• Adjust your privacy settings. You can make your account private, which means only people you approve can follow you and see your posts.