Deleting your Instagram account is a significant decision, and it’s essential to understand the process thoroughly. Whether you want to permanently delete your account or temporarily deactivate it, I’ll guide you through the steps. Let’s explore both options:
How to Permanently Delete Your Instagram Account
1. Backup Your Data
Before proceeding, ensure you back up any photos, videos, or data you want to keep. Once you delete your account, everything will be gone.
2. Using Mobile (iOS/Android)
a. Open a Web Browser
- Instagram’s account deletion process is not available within the app. Open any web browser on your mobile device.
b. Go to the Deletion Page
- Visit the Delete Your Account page.
- Log in using your phone number, username, or email address along with your password.
c. Select a Reason
- Choose a reason for deleting your account from the drop-down menu. This won’t affect your ability to proceed.
d. Re-enter Your Password
- Confirm your decision by re-entering your password.
e. Tap “Delete [username]”
- You’ll see your projected deletion date above and below the button.
- You have 30 days until your account is permanently deleted.
- If you change your mind, simply log back into your Instagram account within this period to reactivate it and cancel the deletion.
3. Using Desktop (Web Browser)
a. Open a Web Browser
- On your computer, open any web browser.
b. Visit the Deletion Page
- Go to the Delete Your Account page.
- Log in using your phone number, username, or email address along with your password.
c. Choose a Reason
- Click the drop-down menu and select a reason for deleting your account.
d. Re-enter Your Password
- Confirm your decision by entering your password again.
e. Click “Delete [username]”
- Similar to the mobile process, you’ll see your projected deletion date.
- Remember, you have 30 days until your account is permanently deleted.
How to Temporarily Deactivate Your Instagram Account
If you’re not ready for permanent deletion, consider deactivating your account temporarily:
- Open Instagram: Log in to your account.
- Go to Settings: Click on your profile picture, then select “Settings.”
- Choose “Privacy”: Scroll down and find the “Privacy” section.
- Select “Account Privacy”: Here, you can toggle your account to private, limiting who can see your posts.
- Deactivate Your Account: If you still want to deactivate, scroll down and choose “Temporarily disable my account.”
- Follow the Prompts: Instagram will guide you through the process.
whether you delete or deactivate, take a moment to consider your decision.