IP ban on Instagram – What is it and how to deal with it?

Instagram is a popular social media platform, but its strict usage policies can lead some users to face restrictions, including an IP ban. What does this mean, and how can you address it? Here’s a comprehensive guide.

instagram app on smartphone screen

What is an IP ban on Instagram?

Instagram promotes organic community growth and has implemented strict usage policies. The platform closely monitors user activities to ensure compliance with its guidelines and to maintain a safe environment. Violating these rules can result in serious penalties, such as an IP ban.

An IP address is a fundamental part of internet infrastructure, acting as an intermediary through which users send and receive data online. Every time you visit a website, your IP address sends a request for access and receives data from the server in return. This critical role makes IP addresses a vital tool in the online world. A user’s IP address can be used to identify them on the network and contains information such as location, enabling website administrators to monitor visitors. Additionally, this information can be used to restrict access to content for certain users.

An IP ban occurs when a website blocks all requests originating from a specific IP address. This ban can be enforced automatically or by an administrator’s decision. When Instagram bans your IP address, you won’t be able to access the platform – whether through the website or the mobile app, which will stop loading. Connection attempts will fail, and the block may be confirmed by a message such as: “The IP address you are using has been flagged as an open proxy. If you think this is incorrect, visit https://help.instagram.com/.”

Why does Instagram ban IP addresses?

Receiving an IP ban on Instagram is easier than you might think. While the platform doesn’t disclose the specifics of its actions, the reasons for an IP ban are clear – they always relate to violations of its terms of service. If you’re a casual Instagram user, sharing photos or spending time browsing, you don’t need to worry. However, if you run an online business relying on social media, it’s essential to understand the platform’s rules. What can lead to an IP ban on Instagram?

Mass likes and follows

If you start liking posts or following multiple accounts in a short period, Instagram may interpret this as an attempt to manipulate the system. This could result in a temporary ban on certain features, such as commenting or liking posts. These restrictions can last from a few hours to up to two weeks. If you’ve faced similar restrictions before, another violation could lead to a permanent IP ban.

Automation using bots

Instagram strictly prohibits using bots to automate activities such as sending messages, liking posts, or leaving comments. Using such tools can flag your account as suspicious and may result in a ban.

Reports from other users

Instagram allows users to report accounts. If your account is flagged as a security threat or for violating copyright, it could be banned. Posting someone else’s content without permission or breaching copyright rules also violates Instagram’s policies.

Content violations

Posts promoting violence, nudity, or sexually explicit content are prohibited on Instagram. If such content is detected or reported, your account may be banned. Additionally, excessive posting frequency can raise suspicion. Instagram sets limits on actions within a specific timeframe. Exceeding these limits can result in your account being flagged as spam.

Multiple accounts on a single IP address

Using multiple accounts linked to the same IP address can lead to it being flagged. This issue often affects users sharing Wi-Fi at home or work, where multiple devices use the same router. Instagram has a limit on how many accounts can operate from a single IP. Exceeding this limit will almost certainly result in a ban. Moreover, if one IP address is banned, other addresses within the same range might also be blacklisted.

bans instagram multiple accounts

Types of bans on Instagram

Did you know that approximately 1,400 Instagram accounts are banned daily in the United States alone? These bans vary in severity and duration.

Temporary ban on Instagram

A temporary ban can last from 3 to 21 days, depending on whether the user continues to violate platform rules. During this period, access to specific Instagram features is restricted.

For example, you may lose the ability to like, comment, follow other users, or send messages. These are known as communication restrictions. Another type is posting restrictions, which prevent adding posts, stories, or reels. Additionally, Instagram may require identity verification to restore access to your account.

Permanent ban on Instagram

A permanent ban results in the removal of your account from the platform without the possibility of recovery. This typically occurs due to persistent violations, such as spamming, mass liking, or following accounts. In such cases, the profile becomes inaccessible to other users, who will see a message stating that the page does not exist.

Shadowban on Instagram

Although Instagram doesn’t officially acknowledge shadowbans, this type of restriction is common. Users describe it as a drastic decrease in reach and engagement on posts, as well as limited visibility of content, particularly hashtags. Shadowbans usually result from violating Instagram’s community guidelines, even though the platform doesn’t explicitly notify users about this penalty.

How to deal with an IP ban on Instagram?

If your IP address has been banned on Instagram, there are effective ways to bypass this restriction and continue using the platform. Here are a few methods you can try to regain access.

Use a proxy server

The most effective way to bypass an IP ban on Instagram is to change or hide your IP address using residential proxies. Proxies allow you to connect to Instagram via a different IP address, often resolving the issue immediately.

High-quality residential or mobile proxies conceal your real IP address and the fact that you’re using a proxy. Instead, they make your activity appear as though it originates from another user on a different device and location. Residential proxies use IP addresses assigned to real users by ISPs, while mobile proxies utilise actual IP addresses of mobile devices. This is an ideal solution for regaining access to Instagram without raising suspicion.

Use a different device

Another method to change your IP address is by using a different device. This is particularly effective if you have a dynamic IP address, which your internet provider may automatically change at specific intervals. Simply turn off your device for a while, and when you turn it back on, you’ll likely be assigned a new IP address.
However, if you have a static IP address, changing it might require contacting your internet provider, which could involve additional costs.

Contact customer support

If you believe your IP ban on Instagram is a mistake, you can always reach out to their technical support team. Describe the issue and file a complaint about losing access to your account. Once you’ve reported the problem, patiently await a response and follow the instructions provided by the support team. Although this process may take some time, it’s worth considering, especially if you haven’t violated platform rules.

avoid getting banned on Instagram

How to avoid getting banned on Instagram?

No Instagram user wants to face an IP ban, as resolving it can be both complicated and time-consuming. Fortunately, there are long-term strategies to help prevent such situations in the future.

Familiarise yourself with community guidelines

When signing up for Instagram, you’re required to accept its community guidelines. While most users likely skim through and click “Accept,” those running businesses or influential content creators should take the time to understand them thoroughly. These rules form the foundation of every interaction on the platform.

Follow activity limits

To avoid having your activity flagged as spam, it’s essential to know Instagram’s limits on likes, comments, and follows per day. New accounts should limit these actions to a maximum of 30 interactions per hour, while older accounts can handle up to 60.

Use reputable tools

For businesses and influencers, automation tools are crucial for expanding reach and increasing followers. However, it’s important to choose only reliable, high-quality solutions that won’t risk your account being banned. Even better, combine such tools with residential proxies, which further reduce the risk of detection by Instagram’s security systems.

IP ban on Instagram – summary

An IP ban on Instagram can be frustrating, but it’s not irreversible. Adhering to platform rules, moderating your activity, and using proxy servers can help prevent similar issues in the future. Always act within Instagram’s guidelines and avoid suspicious practices. With the right solutions, you can enjoy uninterrupted access to Instagram and its features.

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