In a world dominated by social media, Instagram has emerged as one of the most popular platforms for sharing photos and connecting with others. However, for various reasons, you might have decided that it's time to bid farewell to the world of likes and filters. Whether you're looking to free up your time, enhance your privacy, or simply take a break, this step-by-step guide will show you how to permanently delete your Instagram account.
Step 1: Backup Your Data
Before bidding adieu to Instagram, it's essential to ensure you have a copy of all the photos, videos, and other content you've shared on the platform. Instagram provides a convenient option to download all your data. Here's how:
Launch the Instagram app on your mobile device or visit the website on your computer.
Go to your profile and tap on the three horizontal lines (menu icon) located in the top-right corner of the screen.
Select "Settings" from the menu.
Tap on "Security" and then choose "Download Data."
Enter your email address and tap on "Request Download."
Instagram will then compile your data and send you an email with a download link. This way, you can retain your memories even after deleting your account.
Step 2: Visit the Instagram Account Deletion Page
To delete your Instagram account, you'll need to visit the dedicated account deletion page. Follow these steps:
Open your preferred web browser and go to Instagram's account deletion page (instagram.com/accounts/remove/request/permanent/).
You'll be prompted to log in if you aren't already. Enter your Instagram username and password.
Note: Deleting an Instagram account cannot be done through the mobile app. You'll need to use a web browser on your computer or mobile device.
Step 3: Provide a Reason for Deleting Your Account
Upon logging in, Instagram will ask you to specify the reason for deleting your account. Choose the most appropriate option from the drop-down menu. This feedback helps Instagram understand user concerns and improve its platform.
Step 4: Permanently Delete Your Instagram Account
Once you've chosen your reason for leaving, the moment of truth arrives. Click on the "Permanently delete my account" button to initiate the deletion process. Instagram will ask for your confirmation before proceeding. Once you confirm, your account will be permanently deleted, along with all your photos, videos, comments, and followers. There's no turning back, so make sure you're certain about this decision.
Step 5: Farewell, Instagram!
Congratulations! You have successfully deleted your Instagram account. Take a moment to appreciate the feeling of liberation as you bid farewell to the world of filters, hashtags, and endless scrolling. Now you can focus on more meaningful connections and regain control over your digital life.
How to delete an Instagram account on iPhone
To delete your Instagram account on an iPhone, you can follow these steps:
Open the Instagram app on your iPhone.
Tap on the profile icon, located at the bottom right corner of the screen. This will take you to your profile page.
Tap on the three horizontal lines, also known as the "hamburger" icon, located at the top right corner of the screen. This will open the settings menu.
Scroll down and select "Settings" at the bottom of the menu.
From the settings menu, tap on "Account."
Scroll down and select "Delete Account" at the bottom of the account settings page.
Instagram will provide you with information about deleting your account. Read through the information, and if you still want to proceed, tap on the highlighted link that says, "Delete Your Account."
Next, you will be prompted to enter your password. Enter your Instagram account password in the provided field.
Once you've entered your password, tap on "Permanently delete my account."
Please note that deleting your Instagram account is irreversible, and once you delete it, your profile, photos, videos, comments, and followers will be permanently removed. If you decide to create an account again in the future, you will need to start from scratch.
It's important to back up any data or content you wish to keep before deleting your account, as you won't be able to recover it once the account is deleted.
How to delete an Instagram account on the phone
To delete your Instagram account on your phone, you can follow these steps:
Open the Instagram app on your Mobile phone.
Tap on the profile icon at the bottom right corner of the screen to go to your profile page.
Locate and tap on the menu icon, usually represented by three horizontal lines, located at the top right corner of the screen. This will open the menu options.
Scroll down and tap on "Settings" at the bottom of the menu.
In the Settings menu, scroll down and tap on "Help" at the bottom.
From the Help menu, tap on "Help Center."
In the Help Center, tap on "Managing Your Account."
Under the Managing Your Account section, tap on "Delete Your Account."
You will see information about deleting your account. Read through the information, and if you still want to proceed, tap on the highlighted link that says, "Delete Your Account."
Instagram will ask you to log in again for security purposes. Enter your Instagram account credentials (username & password) in the provide fields.
Once you've logged in, you will be taken to the Delete Your Account page. Select a reason from the drop-down menu to provide feedback, or choose "Something else" if your reason isn't listed.
After selecting a reason, tap on "Permanently delete my account" at the bottom of the page.
Instagram will display a final confirmation message informing you that your account will be permanently deleted. If you still want to proceed, tap on "OK" or "Yes."
Remember that deleting your Instagram account is a permanent action and cannot be undone. Your profile, photos, videos, comments, and followers will be permanently removed. If you wish to use Instagram again in the future, you'll need to create a new account.
Before deleting your account, it's a good idea to back up any important data or content you want to keep. Once the account is deleted, you won't be able to recover any of the information associated with it.
How to delete an Instagram account on Android
To delete your Instagram account on an Android device, you can follow these steps:
Open the Instagram app on your Android device. Make sure you are logged in with the account you want to delete.
Tap on the profile icon located at the bottom-right corner of the screen. This will take you to your profile page.
Next, tap on the three horizontal lines (hamburger icon) at the top-right corner of the screen. This will open the menu.
Scroll down and select "Settings" at the bottom of the menu.
In the Settings menu, scroll down and tap on "Help" and then select "Help Center."
In the Help Center, tap on the search bar at the top and type "delete account" and select the matching option from the suggestions.
On the Delete Your Account page, you will find information about deleting your Instagram account. Read through the information to understand the consequences of deleting your account.
Under the question "How do I delete my account?" tap on the link provided to open the account deletion page.
You will be directed to the Instagram website in your device's browser. You may need to log in again.
On the account deletion page, you will be asked to provide a reason for deleting your account from the given options. Select the reason that best suits your situation.
Once you have selected a reason, you will need to re-enter your Instagram password in the designated field.
Finally, tap on the "Permanently delete my account" button. A confirmation pop-up will appear asking if you are sure you want to delete your account. If you are certain, tap "OK" to proceed.
Your Instagram account will be permanently deleted after completing these steps. Remember that this action is irreversible, and you will lose all your photos, videos, followers, and other account data.
Conclusion:
Deleting your Instagram account can be a significant step towards reclaiming your time and privacy. By following this step-by-step guide, you've learned how to permanently delete your Instagram account and bid farewell to the platform. Remember to download your data before deleting your account to preserve your memories. Embrace this change, explore new avenues, and enjoy a life beyond the virtual world of social media.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the process to permanently delete your Instagram account?
A1: To permanently delete your Instagram account, go to the account deletion page, provide a reason, and confirm the deletion.
Q2: Where can I find the account deletion page on Instagram?
A2: You can find the account deletion page on Instagram's website by navigating to the "Delete Your Account" section.
Q3: What information do I need to provide to delete my Instagram account?
A3: You need to provide your username or email associated with the account and your password for verification purposes.
Q4: Can I recover my Instagram account after deleting it?
A4: No, once you delete your Instagram account, it is permanently removed, and you cannot recover any of your data.
Q5: Are there any alternatives to permanently deleting my Instagram account?
A5: Yes, you can temporarily disable your account instead of permanently deleting it if you want a break from Instagram.
Q6: How long does it take for the deletion process to complete?
A6: Instagram states that it may take up to 90 days to fully delete your account and all associated information from their systems.
Q7: Will deleting my Instagram account remove all my photos and videos?
A7: Yes, deleting your Instagram account will permanently remove all your photos, videos, likes, comments, and followers.
Q8: Can I download my data before deleting my Instagram account?
A8: Yes, Instagram allows you to download a copy of your data, including photos, videos, messages, and profile information, before deletion.
Q9: Will deleting my Instagram account also remove my Instagram app from my phone?
A9: No, deleting your account only affects your account's presence on Instagram's servers; the app will remain on your phone.
Q10: Is there a waiting period before I can delete my Instagram account?
A10: No, once you have decided to delete your Instagram account, you can initiate the deletion process immediately without any waiting period.