Instagram Problems: 12 Most-Common Issues (Explained)

Instagram, the popular photo and video sharing platform, has its fair share of issues. Users often encounter problems ranging from app updates to account termination and lack of engagement.

In this article, we will discuss some of the most common Instagram problems and the possible solutions to fix them.

By identifying and addressing these concerns, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience on the platform.

Let’s start with login issues.

Login Issues

Account Hacked

If a user’s Instagram account has been hacked, they may face login issues, especially if the hacker has changed their password or email address. To recover a hacked account, users should request a login link or security code from Instagram.

They can do this by clicking on the “Need More Help?” option on the login screen, which will prompt them to provide their email address or phone number.

Instagram will send a login link or security code that will allow users to regain access and secure their account.

Remember that it is crucial to have a strong, unique password and enable two-factor authentication to prevent unauthorized access to one’s Instagram account.

Forgotten Password

Users may forget their Instagram account passwords, which can lead to login issues. In such a case, they should request a password reset link by clicking on the “Forgot Password?” option on the login screen.

This will send a reset link to the registered email address or phone number associated with their account.

By following the instructions in the email or text message, they can create a new password and regain access to their account.

Technical Problems

App Crashing

One common issue users face with Instagram is the app crashing unexpectedly.

This can happen on both Android and iOS devices. To resolve this problem, users can try updating the app to the latest version, as developers often release updates to fix bugs and improve performance. If updating the app doesn’t work, another solution would be to clear the cache (for Android users) or reinstall the app on the device.

Loading Issues

Another technical problem users might encounter on Instagram is slow loading times or issues with loading content, such as images and videos. This can be frustrating for users who want to quickly access their feeds. Potential solutions to loading issues include:

• Check for app updates and download the latest version
• Ensure the device meets the minimum system requirements for running the app
• Check the internet connection to make sure it’s stable and strong enough for browsing
• Disable or disconnect from VPN (Virtual Private Network) if applicable
• Disable any power-saving or battery optimization features that might slow down the app’s performance

Content and Posting

Failed Uploads

At times, Instagram users face issues uploading photos or videos.

There could be several reasons for this, such as a weak internet connection, using an outdated version of the app, or having the Data Saver option turned on. To resolve this issue, users can try updating the app, switching to a more stable internet connection, or disabling the Data Saver option in the settings.

Disappearing Stories

Instagram stories are designed to disappear after 24 hours.

However, sometimes stories disappear before that time frame, which can be frustrating for users. One possible explanation is app glitches, which can be resolved by either reinstalling the app or clearing the cache. Another reason could be that stories were reported and removed by Instagram due to content violation.

Users should ensure that their content adheres to Instagram’s community guidelines to avoid this problem.

Tagging Troubles

Tagging other users on Instagram is a popular way to share content and interact with others.

However, users sometimes encounter issues when tagging people in their posts or stories. These issues could include the inability to tag specific users or incorrect username suggestions.

To mitigate these problems, ensure that the person being tagged allows public tagging in their privacy settings. Additionally, always double-check that the correct username is entered.

Interaction and Engagement

Blocked Hashtags

Sometimes, Instagram blocks specific hashtags due to their inappropriate or offensive content.

Users who include these blocked hashtags in their posts might experience decreased visibility and engagement. It’s essential to research and avoid using these hashtags to maintain healthy engagement levels on the platform.

Shadow Banning

Shadow banning is another challenge many Instagram users face.

This practice involves limiting the visibility of a user’s content without notifying them. For example, if a user is shadow banned, their posts might not appear in their followers’ feeds or the Explore page, leading to reduced engagement.

Shadow banning can happen for various reasons, including:

• spammy behavior,
• using inappropriate hashtags,
• or violating Instagram’s guidelines.

Low Organic Reach

With more users and brands on Instagram, there is fierce competition for visibility and engagement. In recent years, organic engagement rates have been declining, making it harder for content creators and businesses to reach and interact with their target audiences.

To combat this issue, users can employ strategies such as:

• Posting consistently to maintain followers’ interest
• Crafting captivating captions to encourage engagement
• Analyzing performance statistics to inform content strategy
• Utilizing interactive stickers in Stories for increased engagement[^2^]

Instagram users should be aware of blocked hashtags, shadow banning, and the declining organic reach as key obstacles in achieving higher interaction and engagement on the platform.

Privacy and Security

Privacy Settings

Instagram offers a number of privacy settings to help users protect their accounts and control who can view and interact with their content.

It’s essential for users to review these settings to ensure their desired level of privacy is maintained. By default, Instagram accounts are set to “public,” meaning anyone can view the user’s content.

To increase privacy, users can switch their account to “private,” restricting access to approved followers only.

Additionally, users can take advantage of Instagram’s content filtering options, such as restricting comments and direct messages from specific individuals. Regularly updating passwords and enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) are further measures users can take to enhance their account security.

Suspicious Activity

Cybercriminals are known to target Instagram users with scams and phishing attempts.

Users should be cautious of suspicious links, as these may be phishing URLs designed to steal personal data or distribute harmful software.

It’s important for users to recognize the signs of scams, such as fake influencer accounts, which may deceive users into engaging with malicious content or divulging sensitive information.

To stay vigilant against suspicious activity, users are advised to always verify the authenticity of influencers before engaging with them, as well as maintaining a keen eye for potential phishing attempts.

By familiarizing oneself with common scams and exercising caution, users can protect themselves from falling victim to cybercriminals on Instagram.

Account Recovery and Support

Deactivated Account

Sometimes, users might deactivate their Instagram accounts temporarily and later decide to reactivate them. To do this, they simply need to log in to Instagram again. If they encounter any issues while reactivating, they can seek assistance via the Instagram Help Center.

Additionally, Instagram provides a Data Download tool that allows users to download a copy of their data after logging back into their accounts.

Contacting Support

Users might face different challenges with their Instagram accounts, such as being hacked, forgetting passwords, or dealing with impersonation accounts.

In such situations, they can request support from Instagram. It’s crucial to note that Instagram can only provide support to users who personally own the affected accounts.

For users who’ve lost access to their email or phone number linked to their Instagram account, the platform has provisions to help restore access. Instagram might ask users to confirm their identity by uploading an ID or even a video selfie. This process ensures a secure and safe restoration of account access.

If users struggle to reset their passwords, Instagram offers a “Reset Password” feature that sends a login link to their email, phone number, or username. This enables users to regain access to their accounts swiftly.