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How to Make Instagram Account Private

With Instagram being one of the most popular social media apps nowadays, taking your privacy into consideration is never a bad idea. If you have a public account, but want to switch to a private account – no worries.

We’ll go through how to change from a public account to a private one and vice versa. So, if this is something you’re interested in figuring out how to do, then continue reading.

 

How to Make Instagram Account Private

The easiest way to change your public Instagram account to a private one is through the Instagram app. Luckily for users, all it takes is the tap of a button for all of your content to be sealed off to anyone who might not be following you. 

Here’s how to get started:

  • Open the Instagram app.
  • Click on your profile icon in the bottom right-hand corner. 
  • Click the three horizontal line menu bar in the top right-hand corner of the screen. 
  • Click “Settings.”
  • Click “Privacy.”
  • Toggle the private account button on under “Account privacy.”

IG Menu Bar

Instagram Settings

Instagram Privacy

IG Privacy Button

When you switch your account to private, only the people who are following you will be able to see the photos and videos that you post.

Being private also won’t interfere with who is allowed to message, mention, or tag you, but you just won’t be allowed to tag anyone who doesn’t follow you back. 

 

How to Make Instagram Account Public

If you change your mind and decide that you want to be public again, you’ll just have to repeat the same steps as before. 

  • Open the Instagram app.
  • Click on your profile icon in the bottom right-hand corner. 
  • Click the three horizontal line menu bar in the top right-hand corner of the screen. 
  • Click “Settings.”
  • Click “Privacy.”
  • Toggle the private account button on under “Account privacy.”

IG Menu Bar

Instagram Settings

Instagram Privacy

IG Privacy

When you switch your account to public, anyone is allowed to see your posts, Reels, and stories, along with being allowed to use your original video.

Being public also won’t change who can message, tag, or mention you, but it will allow for people to be able to remix your Reels and download them. No worries on this though, you can change this part in settings. 

 

How to Make Instagram Account Private on Desktop

If you’re already on your computer and want to make your account private using your desktop, then that works too. Instagram allows for users to also adjust their privacy settings with the click of a button on desktop. 

  • Open instagram.com in your web browser. 
  • Log in to your account if you aren’t already. 
  • Click your profile icon in the top right-hand corner of the screen. 
  • Click “Settings” from the drop-down menu.
  • Click “Privacy and security” on the left-hand side. 
  • Check or uncheck the box under “Account Privacy” to either make your account private or public. 

Instagram Settings

IG Desktop Privacy

 

What is the difference of a private vs. public account on Instagram?

Whether you want the whole world to have access to the content you post is totally up to you. If you fall into this category, then keeping your account public is probably your first option. 

If you want to start taking your privacy on social media a little more serious, than the first step you should take is switching your account to private if it isn’t already.

Having a private account comes with its benefits. You’ll be able to protect your posts, reels, and stories from those who don’t follow you, along with making yourself a little less unseen in the Instagram world. 

 

Conclusion

Take into consideration what you’ve learned and read from the blog post and decide if making your account private is the right choice for you. 

With so many users on social media nowadays, protecting yourself and the content you post might not be the worst idea! 

Written by Lucia Summa

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