Tech Desk 
Nov 28, 2024
Do you think about leaving Instagram but aren't sure how to delete your account? Whether it's for a digital detox, privacy concerns, or just taking a break, deleting your Instagram account is simple.
In this guide, Gadinsider will break down the process into easy-to-follow steps on how to delete an Instagram account. Read on to learn how to permanently delete your account and what options are available if you're not ready to take that final step.
The steps guide you through how to complete the process while providing information on the impact, too. You'll also get to know what happens after you delete your Instagram account and what choices you can utilise in case you only need something short-term.
Step-by-step guide on how to delete Instagram account
Follow these steps to delete your Instagram account:
- Log into your account via the app or web browser.
- Go to More > Settings > Accounts Center.
- Click Personal details > Account ownership and control > Deactivation or deletion.
- Select the Instagram account you wish to delete.
- Click on Delete account > Continue.
- Enter your password to confirm it’s you.
- Choose a reason for deleting your account from the provided options.
- Click Delete account to finalise the process.
What happens after deleting Instagram account?
Once you delete your Instagram account, your profile, photos, videos, comments, and likes will be permanently deleted. You will not be able to recover this data, so make sure you back up any important content before doing so.
It may take up to 30 days for Instagram to completely delete your data, but your profile will be invisible during this period.
Alternatives to deleting Instagram account
If you don't want to make it a permanent goodbye, here are the alternatives:
- Deactivate account: This option suspends your account. This way, your profile, photos, and comments are not visible. You can easily reactivate the account whenever you want to do so by logging in again.
- Adjust privacy settings: There is a privacy setting to control visibility, and interactions, and block particular users.
- Social media break: Uninstall the application, and log out without deleting the account.
