Emily Bennett
How to Make Your Instagram Account Private in 2025
This guide provides a straightforward, step-by-step methodology to make your Instagram account private. A private account ensures that only your approved followers can see your posts and stories, enhancing your privacy within the app. By following these steps, you’ll take control of your Instagram content and who can view it.
Step 1: Open the Instagram App
Begin by launching the Instagram app on your device. If you’re not already logged in, enter your credentials to access your account.
Step 2: Go to Your Profile
Once logged in, tap on the profile icon located at the bottom right corner of the screen. This will take you to your profile page where you can modify your account settings.
Step 3: Access Account Settings
On your profile page, tap the three horizontal lines (menu icon) in the top right corner. From the menu that appears, select “Settings” at the bottom.
Step 4: Navigate to Privacy Settings
In the Settings menu, tap on “Privacy.” This section allows you to control who sees your content and interacts with your account.
Step 5: Switch to a Private Account
Within the Privacy settings, you’ll see an option labeled “Private Account.” Toggle the switch to turn on this feature. A confirmation prompt may appear, informing you that only your followers will be able to see your posts and stories. Confirm to proceed.
Step 6: Review Your Followers
After making your account private, review your existing followers. You can remove followers who you do not want to have access to your account. To do this, go back to your profile, tap on “Followers,” and select the three dots next to the follower you wish to remove.
Step 7: Customize Additional Privacy Settings
Explore additional privacy options in the Privacy settings, such as restricting comments and controlling who can send you messages or follow you. Adjust these settings according to your comfort level.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
When making your account private:
- Ensure that you add important people as followers before switching to private.
- Remember, once your account is private, new followers will need to request to follow you.
- If you experience issues, restarting the app or checking for updates may resolve them.
Make sure to frequently review your followers to maintain a comfortable environment on your private account!
Conclusion
By following these steps, you have successfully made your Instagram account private, ensuring greater control over your content and follower interactions. Regularly check your settings and followers to maintain your desired level of privacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can anyone see my posts if my account is private?
No, only your approved followers will be able to see your posts and stories when your account is set to private.
Will my current followers be automatically removed if I switch to private?
No, your current followers will remain, but they will continue to have access to your posts unless you remove them as followers.
How do I make my Instagram account public again?
Follow the same steps to access your Privacy settings and toggle off the “Private Account” option to make your account public again.