Instagram is a place where we connect with others, but sometimes, those connections get cut off. A common question people have is, “Does blocking someone on Instagram delete messages?” This question leads us into the world of online interactions and what happens when we set a virtual boundary.
Let’s take a closer look at how blocking works on Instagram and what happens to the messages in this digital space.
Does Blocking Someone on Instagram Delete Messages?
In brief, the answer is NO. When you block someone on Instagram, there’s a common misunderstanding that all direct messages with that person vanish from the digital space. However, the truth is different. The messages stick around even after the block.
What does change is the way people can talk. The messages don’t disappear, but both people can’t send new messages to each other. Even if the person who blocked decides to unblock the user, any messages sent during the block won’t reach the intended person.
What Happens to Mutual Groups When You Block Someone?
If you share a group with the blocked individual, Instagram presents you with a choice. The platform asks whether you wish to stay in a mutual group or part ways.
Choosing to remain in the group allows you to see messages from the blocked user. Additionally, the blocked user loses the privilege to enter any room you create.
Also read: How to Know If Someone Blocked You on Instagram?
Strategic Blocking Measures
Instagram offers a preventive measure by asking if you want to block all potential accounts the user might create. If you choose not to block all accounts at once, you’ll need to block them individually.
Plus, if your Facebook account isn’t integrated into the Accounts Center, blocking on Instagram won’t extend to your Facebook interactions. To ensure a comprehensive block, it’s necessary to take direct action on Facebook as well.
What Happens to Likes, Comments, Mentions, and Tags When You Block a User?
When you block a user, the likes and comments on your posts are deleted and cannot be restored even if the user is unblocked. Interestingly, while you may be invisible on their posts, the person who blocked you can still see your likes and comments on other people’s posts.
Additionally, the blocked user loses the ability to mention or tag you in their posts or comments. If you change your username after being blocked, they won’t be able to mention or tag you unless they know your new username.
Changing your username after being blocked adds an extra layer of protection, making it more challenging for the blocked individual to track your online presence.
Also read: Is it Better to Unfollow or Block on Instagram?
Wrap Up – Does Blocking Someone on Instagram Delete Messages?
Simply put, when you block someone, it doesn’t wipe out the past, but it does influence future interactions. Messages stay around, though they can’t be exchanged, holding out hope for potential reconnection.
Likes and comments, however, face a more definitive outcome—they are deleted. Similarly, mentions and tags encounter a virtual barrier, preventing the blocked person from including you in their posts or comments.
Also read: What happens when you unsend an Instagram message
FAQs
After clarifying the main question of the blog, ‘Does blocking on Instagram delete messages?’, let’s now explore the answers to some other common questions.
1. If You Send Someone a Message on Instagram and Then Block Them Can They Still Read It?
Yes, if you send someone a message on Instagram and then block them, they can still read the message. Blocking only prevents them from sending new messages or interacting further after the block is in place.
2. When Does Someone Become an “Instagram User” in DMs?
When someone blocks you on Instagram, they appear as “Instagram User” in your Direct Messages.
3. Can a Blocked Person See Your Online Status?
No, when you block someone on Instagram, they cannot see your online status. Blocking restricts the blocked person from viewing your online activity, including whether you are currently active on the platform.
4. Do Your Followers Know that You Blocked Someone?
No, your followers on Instagram do not receive any notification or alert indicating that you have blocked someone. Blocking is a private action that only affects the interactions between you and the blocked user. It does not broadcast any information to your followers.
5. What Is the Difference Between Restrict and Block Options on Instagram?
On Instagram, restricting and blocking are two different actions with distinct implications:
1. Blocking:
– When you block someone on Instagram, they are prevented from seeing your posts, stories, and profile.
– Blocked users cannot send you direct messages, and their comments on your posts are hidden from your view.
– The blocked person is not notified of the block, but they may infer it by being unable to access your content.
2. Restricting:
– When you restrict someone, they can still see your posts and stories, but their comments on your posts are visible only to them unless you approve them.
– Direct messages from a restricted user go to your message requests, and they won’t be notified when you’ve read their message.
– Their activity status won’t be visible to you, and they won’t know when you are online.
In essence, blocking is a more severe action, completely cutting off someone’s access to your content and communication. Restricting, on the other hand, allows a level of interaction but with added controls over comments and message visibility.
6. Does Instagram Permanently Delete Direct Messages After You’ve Blocked Someone for a Time?
No, Instagram does not permanently delete direct messages after you’ve blocked someone for a period. Blocking someone doesn’t automatically delete the messages you exchanged with them. The messages persist, but the blocked user loses the ability to see new messages or engage in further communication with you. If you unblock them later, the existing messages will still be accessible.
