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How to Delete Your Instagram Account: A Step-by-Step Guide
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Instagram users seeking to permanently remove their accounts can do so through a straightforward process, as reported by HubSpot. The deletion procedure involves accessing account settings, selecting the deletion option, and confirming the decision, after which the user's profile, photos, videos, comments, likes, and followers will be permanently removed from the platform.

Steps to Backup Your Instagram Data Before Deletion

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To backup your Instagram data before deleting your account, follow these steps:
  1. Open the Instagram app and go to your profile.
  2. Tap the menu icon (three lines) in the top right corner.
  3. Select "Settings" and then "Security."
  4. Choose "Download Data" under the "Data and History" section.
  5. Enter your email address and Instagram password.
  6. Tap "Request Download" to initiate the process.
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Instagram will compile your data, including photos, comments, profile information, and more, which may take up to 48 hours. You'll receive an email with a link to download your data once it's ready.
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This backup ensures you retain your content and information after deleting your account. Remember to check your spam folder if you don't see the email in your inbox.
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How to Permanently Delete Your Instagram Account: A Step-by-Step Guide

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Permanently deleting your Instagram account is a straightforward process that can be completed through a web browser. Here are the steps to permanently delete your Instagram account:
  1. Log in to Instagram using a web browser (mobile or desktop)
  2. Navigate to the "Delete Your Account" page
  3. Select a reason for deleting your account from the dropdown menu
  4. Re-enter your password to confirm
  5. Click "Permanently delete [username]" to initiate the deletion process
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It's important to note that after requesting deletion, Instagram will deactivate your account for 30 days before permanent deletion. During this period, you can still log in to cancel the deletion request. After 30 days, your account and all associated data will be permanently removed
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The entire deletion process may take up to 90 days to complete fully
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How to Temporarily Deactivate Your Instagram Account: A Step-by-Step Guide

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Instagram offers users the option to temporarily deactivate their accounts, which hides their profile and content until they choose to reactivate. Here's how to temporarily deactivate your Instagram account:
  • Log in to Instagram using a web browser (this process cannot be done through the mobile app)
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  • Go to your profile and click "Edit Profile"
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  • Select "See more in Accounts Center"
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  • Choose "Personal details" then "Account ownership and control"
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  • Select "Deactivation or deletion"
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  • Choose the account you want to deactivate
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  • Select "Deactivate account" and click "Continue"
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  • Enter your password when prompted
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  • Choose a reason for deactivating from the provided list
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  • Click "Deactivate account" to confirm
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Remember that you can only deactivate your Instagram account once per week, and you can reactivate it at any time by simply logging back in.
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Delete Instagram Account Permanently (Videos)

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Temporary Deactivation vs. Permanent Deletion Explained

Instagram offers two options for users who want to step away from the platform: temporary deactivation and permanent deletion. The key differences between these options are summarized in the following table:
FeatureTemporary DeactivationPermanent Deletion
DurationTemporary, can be reactivated anytimePermanent, cannot be undone after 30 days
Data retentionProfile, photos, comments, and likes are hidden but preservedAll data is permanently removed
Username availabilityRemains reserved for the userUsername becomes available for others
Reactivation processSimple login to reactivateNew account creation required
Frequency limitCan only be done once per weekNo frequency limit
Temporary deactivation allows users to take a break from Instagram without losing their data, while permanent deletion irreversibly removes all account information
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When deactivating, the account becomes invisible to other users, but all content remains intact for future reactivation
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In contrast, permanent deletion removes all profile data, posts, and interactions after a 30-day grace period, during which the user can still log in to cancel the deletion request
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Common Issues and Troubleshooting During Account Deletion

When attempting to delete an Instagram account, users may encounter various issues. Here's a summary of common problems and their solutions:
IssueSolution
Pending actions preventing deletionComplete ongoing sales, conclude active ad campaigns, resolve reported content issues
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Business or creator account complicationsRevert to personal account: Profile > Settings > Account Type and Tools > Switch to Personal Account
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Account ownership verification requiredProvide necessary information to verify identity when prompted
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Account banned or suspendedAppeal through Instagram's Help Center if account was disabled for guideline violations
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Underage accountEnsure account is managed by an adult and clearly stated in bio if under 13
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Third-party app usageAvoid using unauthorized third-party apps that may compromise account security
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If issues persist, users can contact Instagram support for further assistance. It's important to note that accounts deleted due to severe community guideline violations may have limited recovery options
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Always ensure compliance with Instagram's policies to avoid unexpected account deletion or suspension.
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Account Deletion Process (Photos)

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Closing Thoughts on How to Delete Your Instagram Account

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Deleting your Instagram account is a significant decision that requires careful consideration of your privacy and digital presence. The process involves navigating through the settings menu, accessing the Accounts Center, and using the drop-down menu to select your reason for deletion. It's crucial to understand that Instagram's privacy policy includes a 30-day deactivation period before permanent deletion, allowing users to reconsider their decision. During this time, your account remains inaccessible to other people on the platform. While the process can be initiated on a mobile phone or through the phone app, using a web browser often provides a smoother experience. Remember to backup your data before hitting the delete button, as this action is irreversible after the 30-day period. As one of the major social media platforms, Instagram's deletion process reflects the broader trend of giving users more control over their online presence and data
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Related
How can I temporarily deactivate my Instagram account instead of deleting it
What are the differences between deactivating and deleting an Instagram account
How long does it take for Instagram to fully delete my account after I request it
Can I reactivate my Instagram account after deleting it
What happens to my followers when I delete my Instagram account
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