Sometimes, a social media refresh is exactly what you need. If you’ve decided that stepping away from Instagram for good is the right move for you, knowing how to permanently delete your account is the first step. It’s a big decision, and the process is a little different from simply uninstalling the app from your phone.
This guide will walk you through the steps to permanently delete your Instagram account, ensuring you’re prepared for what that means.
Before You Say Goodbye: A Crucial First Step
Before you proceed, it’s important to know that deleting your account is permanent. Instagram gives you a 30-day grace period, but after that, your profile, photos, videos, comments, likes, and followers will be gone for good. If you think you might want to return, consider temporarily disabling your account instead, which hides your profile but lets you reactivate it later by logging back in.
How to Permanently Delete Your Instagram Account
You can’t delete your account from within the Instagram mobile app. You must use a web browser, either on your phone or computer. Navigate to the official Instagram website and log into your account. Once logged in, go to the “Delete Your Account” page. If you have trouble finding it, you can search for “Instagram delete account” in your search engine; the official help page is typically the first result.
You’ll be asked to select a reason for leaving from a dropdown menu. After you’ve provided a reason, you must re-enter your password. Finally, click the red button that says “Permanently delete my account.” Your account will then be scheduled for deletion.
What to Do Before Hitting Delete
Since everything will be erased, it’s a good idea to save anything you want to keep. You can download a copy of your data, including your photos and videos, directly from Instagram. Go to your profile settings, select “Privacy and Security,” and then “Download Data.” Enter your email, and Instagram will send you a link to a file with your information. This process can take a few days, so plan ahead.
Taking this step is a significant move toward a different digital life. By following these steps, you can ensure your exit from Instagram is smooth and final, giving you the clean break you’re looking for.
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