Ever gotten tired of Instagram and wanted to take a break for a while? That was the case with me two years ago, and I decided to delete my account to step away from social media for 6 months and organize my life. I assume you’re here to find out how to delete an Instagram account aswell, and I’m here to guide you through the process.
Plus, I’ll provide you with the steps for deactivating your account in case you only want to take a break.
Ready to learn more? Let’s get started.
How to Delete an Instagram Account on Phone?
Deleting your Instagram account from your phone is a straightforward process, but it’s essential to know the specific steps for your device. If you’re using an Android phone, the procedure slightly differs from that on an iPhone. In this section, we’ll break down the steps for both platforms, ensuring a smooth and efficient account deletion process.
Delete Your Account from Instagram App on Android
If you own an Android device, deleting your Instagram account involves a series of steps within the app:
1. Go to your profile located in the bottom right corner.
2. Access additional options by tapping the hamburger icon in the top right, then select “Settings and privacy.”
3. Tap “Accounts Center.”
4. Then, choose “Personal details.”
5. Choose “Account ownership and control.”
6. Here, tap on “Deactivation or deletion.”
7. Identify and tap on the specific account you wish to permanently delete.
8. Start the deletion process by tapping “Delete account” and confirm by selecting “Continue.”
Also Read: A Full Guide on How to Reactivate Your Instagram Account
Delete Your Account from Instagram App on iPhone
For iPhone users, the account deletion process varies slightly. Here’s how to do so:
1. Tap the profile icon in the bottom right to access your profile.
2. Navigate to the top right and tap the hamburger menu.
3. Select “Settings and privacy” from the menu.
4. Tap on “Account” and scroll down to find the “Delete account” option at the bottom.
5. Choose “Delete account” and proceed by tapping “Continue deleting account.”
6. From the drop-down menu labeled “Why do you want to delete [account name]?” select a reason, and re-enter your password. Please note that the option to permanently delete your account will only appear after providing a reason and entering your password.
7. Tap “Delete [username]” and confirm by clicking “OK.”
Delete Your Account from Accounts Center on iPhone
If you prefer managing your Instagram account through the Accounts Center on your iPhone, here’s another guide on deleting your account:
1. Access your profile in the bottom right corner.
2. Open the hamburger menu by tapping the icon in the top right. Once open, select “Settings and privacy.”
3. Navigate to “Accounts Center” and tap “See more,” then proceed to “Personal details.”
4. Select “Account ownership and control” and tap on “Deactivation or deletion.”
5. Choose the specific account you wish to permanently delete.
6. Tap “Delete account” and follow up by clicking “Continue.”
How to Delete an Instagram Account on a Computer?
Deleting your Instagram account is not limited to mobile devices; you can also do it from your computer. However, the procedure is distinct from the mobile app. In this section, I’ll guide you through the steps of deleting your Instagram account when using a computer:
1. Visit the “Delete Your Account” page. If you’re not currently logged into Instagram on the web, you’ll be prompted to log in.
2. Choose a reason from the dropdown menu under “Why do you want to delete [account name]?” and provide your password. The option to permanently delete your account will be visible only after you’ve selected a reason and entered your password.
3. Click on “Delete [username]” to confirm the account deletion.
4. If you wish to delete a different account:
a. Click on the username located in the top-right corner of the “Delete Your Account” page.
b. Select the setting option next to “Edit profile” and choose “Log out.”
c. Log back in with the account you want to delete and follow the instructions above.
Also read: How to unfollow everyone on instagram who is not following me
Delete an Account from Accounts Center on Computer
Now, if you prefer managing your Instagram account from a computer and using the Accounts Center for account-related actions, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do so:
1. Select the “More” option from the bottom left menu, and then click on “Settings” in the subsequent menu.
2. Navigate to “Accounts Center” and proceed to click on “Personal details.”
3. Choose “Account ownership and control,” and then click on “Deactivation or deletion.”
4. Identify and click on the specific account you want to permanently delete.
5. Initiate the deletion process by clicking “Delete account” and confirm by selecting “Continue.”
How to Deactivate an Instagram Account on Phone?
Sometimes, you may not want to permanently delete your Instagram account but rather take a break. Right?
In such cases, deactivating your account temporarily is an option. This section will outline the steps for deactivating your Instagram account on both Android and iPhone devices, providing you with the flexibility to return whenever you’re ready.
Also Read: How to Unlink Instagram from Facebook
Deactivate Your Account from Instagram App on Android
Want to deactivate your Instagram account from the Android app now? Follow the steps below to take control of your account status:
1. Log in to Instagram.com using a mobile browser.
2. Access your profile by tapping your profile picture in the bottom right. Then, tap on “Profile” and select “Edit Profile.”
3. Scroll down and locate “Temporarily deactivate my account” in the bottom right.
4. Choose a reason from the drop-down menu next to “Why are you deactivating your account?” and re-enter your password. [The option to deactivate your account will only appear after selecting a reason and entering your password.]
5. Confirm the deactivation by tapping “Temporarily Deactivate Account.” You can further confirm by selecting “Yes” or cancel by choosing “No.”
Deactivate Your Account from Accounts Center on Android
If you prefer using the Accounts Center for deactivation, here’s an easy guide to help you deactivate your account on your Android device. Let’s make it a breeze:
1. Go to your profile in the bottom right.
2. Open the hamburger menu by tapping the icon in the top right, then select “Settings and privacy.”
3. Explore “Accounts Center” and tap “See more,” then proceed to “Personal details.”
4. Choose “Account ownership and control” and tap on “Deactivation or deletion.”
5. Identify and tap on the specific account you’ve decided to temporarily deactivate.
6. Finally, tap “Deactivate account” and confirm by selecting “Continue.”
Deactivate Your Account from Instagram App on iPhone
To take a temporary break from Instagram, follow these steps on your iPhone:
1. Go to your profile located in the bottom right.
2. Open the hamburger menu by tapping the icon in the top right. Then, select “Settings and privacy.”
3. Within the “Account” section, locate and tap “Delete account” at the bottom.
4. Opt for “Deactivate account” and choose a reason from the drop-down menu labeled “Why are you deactivating your account?”
5. Re-enter your account password. [Please note that the option to deactivate your account will only appear after selecting a reason and entering your password.]
6. Finalize the process by tapping “Temporarily Deactivate Account.”
Deactivate Your Account from Accounts Center on iPhone
If you’re someone who likes to handle account-related tasks using the Accounts Center on your iPhone, I’ve also put together a guide to help you deactivate your account:
1. Open Instagram app and go to your profile in the bottom right.
2. Tap the hamburger menu in the top right, then select “Settings and privacy.”
3. Explore “Accounts Center” and tap “See more,” then proceed to “Personal details.”
4. Choose “Account ownership and control” and tap on “Deactivation or deletion.”
5. Identify and tap on the specific account you wish to temporarily deactivate.
6. Start the deactivation process by tapping “Deactivate account” and confirm by selecting “Continue.”
Note: Deactivating IG accounts from the Accounts Center may not be available for some users at this time.
How to Deactivate an Instagram Account on a Computer?
If you’re considering deactivating your Instagram account on your computer, I’ve got you covered here as well:
1. Log in to Instagram.com using a computer.
2. Click on your profile picture in the top right, then select “Profile” and click “Edit Profile.”
3. Scroll down and find “Temporarily deactivate my account” in the bottom right.
4. Choose a reason from the drop-down menu next to “Why are you deactivating your account?” and re-enter your password. [The option to deactivate your account will only be visible after selecting a reason and entering your password.]
5. Confirm the deactivation by clicking “Temporarily Deactivate Account.” Further, confirm by selecting “Yes” or cancel by choosing “No.”
Deactivate an Account from Accounts Center on Computer
Another way to deactivate your account is through these simple steps from Accounts Center on your computer:
1. FIrst, select “More” from the menu situated in the bottom left.
2. Click on “Settings” to access your account settings.
3. Then, navigate to “Accounts Center” and proceed to click on “Personal details.”
4. Choose “Account ownership and control” and then click on “Deactivation or deletion.”
5. Identify and click on the account you want to deactivate.
6. Eventually, click “Deactivate account” and confirm by selecting “Continue.”
Now that you’re familiar with the various methods for deleting and deactivating your Instagram account across different devices, have you considered the reasons behind these actions?
Is it more practical to keep your account and deactivate it temporarily when it’s not proving useful, or does it make sense to delete the account and create a new one later?
Let’s explore when it’s wise to delete an Instagram account in the next section.
Also Read: How to Delete Instagram Messages
Why Delete Instagram Account?
There are various reasons why someone might choose to delete their Instagram account. Here are a few common motivations:
1. Privacy Concerns: Users may decide to delete their Instagram accounts to maintain a higher level of privacy, especially if they have concerns about the platform’s data collection practices or wish to limit the amount of personal information shared online.
2. Social Media Fatigue: Individuals might feel overwhelmed or fatigued by the constant influx of content on social media. Deleting an Instagram account can provide a break and reduce the time spent scrolling through feeds.
3. Focus on Real-life Connections: Some users opt to delete their accounts to prioritize real-life relationships over virtual ones. This decision can be driven by a desire to connect more meaningfully with friends and family offline.
4. Cyberbullying or Harassment: Instances of cyberbullying or online harassment can prompt users to delete their Instagram accounts as a measure to protect themselves from negative experiences and maintain mental well-being.
5. Productivity and Time Management: Deleting Instagram can be a strategic move for those looking to improve productivity and time management by minimizing distractions associated with social media.
6. Changing Interests or Values: As individuals evolve, their interests and values may change. Some users decide to delete their Instagram accounts to align their online presence with their evolving personal or professional identity.
7. Digital Detox: Taking a break from social media, including Instagram, is part of a digital detox strategy for individuals seeking a healthier balance between online and offline activities.
Before deciding to delete an Instagram account, consider personal preferences, priorities, and the potential impact on both online and offline aspects of life.
More Tips on Deleting Your Instagram Account
If you’re ready to delete your account, consider these simple tips. Remember, it’s a permanent move, so back up your data, know your login details, and be aware of the timeline for deletion.
1. Permanent Removal:
– Deleting your account means saying goodbye to your profile, photos, comments, likes, and followers permanently.
2. Backup Your Data:
– Before deletion, log in to download a copy of your info, as Instagram’s Data Download tool won’t be accessible post-deletion.
3. Remember Your Credentials:
– You need to log in to request deletion, so ensure you remember your password and username.
4. Android Users Note:
– If using the Instagram app on Android, head to Instagram.com on a computer or mobile browser for account deletion.
5. Recovery Option:
– After deletion, you can sign up again with the same username or use it on another account, unless there are Community Guidelines violations.
6. Timeline of Deletion:
– Your account and info are permanently deleted after 30 days of the deletion request.
7. Extended Deletion Process:
– Complete deletion may take up to 90 days, with potential content copies in backup storage during this period.
8. Data Retention Policies:
– Instagram may retain your information beyond 90 days for legal issues, terms violations, or harm prevention, as outlined in their Privacy Policy.
More Tips on Temporarily Deactivating Your Instagram Account
If you’re considering deactivating your account temporarily, here’s what you need to know beforehand as well:
1. Break Without Permanence:
– Opt for temporary deactivation if you want a break without losing your data permanently.
2. Deactivation Process:
– Note that, at the time of this information, deactivation may not be done through Accounts Center.
3. Security First:
– You still need to log in for account deactivation, so remember your credentials.
4. Content Accessibility:
– During deactivation, your account and information remain accessible, with no impact on Instagram’s Data Download tool.
5. Flexible Username Use:
– No restrictions on reusing the same username after reactivation.
6. Quick and Reversible:
– Easily reactivate your account when you’re ready to come back after a temporary break.
Last Words
To sum it up, deciding to delete or take a break from your Instagram account is a personal choice. Whether it’s about privacy, needing a break, or wanting to focus more on real-life connections, the steps to either temporarily deactivate or permanently delete are a piece of cake.
It’s all about putting you in control of your social media experience, allowing you to shape your online presence in a way that suits you best. So remember, you have the power to decide how you want to navigate the digital world, making sure it aligns with your preferences and lifestyle.
FAQs
Now that you know how to delete an Instagram account, it’s time to answer some frequently asked questions.
1. How to Delete an Instagram Account Without Password?
Due to security protocols, Instagram is unable to start account deletion on your behalf. To request deletion, it is necessary for you to log into your account.
However, if you’ve forgotten your password, the following steps can help you reset it using your email address, phone number, or Facebook account:
1. On the login screen, select “Forgot Password?”
2. Enter your username, email, or phone number, and choose “Log in with Facebook.”
3. Click “Next” and follow the on-screen instructions.
4. A link will be sent to either your email or phone, providing assistance in resetting your password.
2. Why Can’t I Delete My Instagram Account?
If you’re having trouble deleting your Instagram account:
1. Check your login details.
2. Wait a few days if you recently deactivated it.
3. Use the correct deletion link on a web browser.
4. Resolve any account restrictions or issues.
5. Try a different browser or device.
6. Contact Instagram support if problems persist.
3. How Long Does It Take to Delete an Instagram Account?
The deletion process for an Instagram account may extend up to 90 days. After this period, some copies of your content might persist in backup storage, which serves as a precaution for potential disasters, software errors, or data loss events.
4. How to Delete an Old Instagram Account?
To delete an old Instagram account, log in, go to your profile, access the Settings menu, select “Delete account,” choose a reason, re-enter your password, and confirm the deletion. Remember, this action is irreversible, so be sure about your decision.
