Why Can’t I Follow Someone on Instagram

Quick Tips

• Ensure the account you’re trying to follow is not private or has blocked you.
• Instagram limits the number of accounts you can follow in a certain time frame. Avoid rapid following.
• Keep your app updated to avoid bugs and glitches that may prevent following someone.

Preliminary Fixes

• You Have Exceeded Limit: Instagram has limits in place to prevent spam and misuse of its platform. One such limit involves the number of people you can follow within a certain period. If you’ve followed too many accounts in a short time, Instagram may temporarily restrict you from following more.
• Instagram Has Action Blocked Your Account: If Instagram suspects that your account is engaging in behavior that violates its community guidelines, it may issue an action block, preventing you from following other users. Action blocks can last from a few hours to several days, depending on the severity of the violation.
• Check Network Connection: A poor or unstable internet connection can prevent you from following someone on Instagram. If you’re on Wi-Fi, restarting your router can sometimes resolve connectivity issues.
• Check Instagram Servers: If Instagram’s servers are down, you may experience issues like being unable to follow someone. Use a service like DownDetector or check Instagram’s official Twitter account for any reports of server outages or issues.

Fix 1: Authenticate Your Account Again

Due to an account authentication error on Instagram, you might face issues following someone on Instagram. It’s time to log out from the app and log in again using the same account credentials.

Step 1: Open Instagram on Android or iPhone (both apps use an identical UI).

Step 2: Go to your account and tap on the hamburger menu in the top right corner.

Step 3: Open Instagram Settings.

Step 4: Scroll down to log out from your account and confirm your decision.

Step 5: Sign back in using Instagram account details and follow accounts without an issue.

Fix 2: The User Has Blocked You

Did someone block you on Instagram? Unfortunately, you can’t follow such accounts. When things go south with your friend or family member, the person might block you on Instagram. Also, Instagram doesn’t notify you when someone blocks you. You’ll need to sort out issues on a call or other social media apps and ask the person to unblock you on Instagram.

Fix 3: You Have Used Bots or Third-Party Apps

Using bots or third-party apps to automate actions like following can result in Instagram restricting your account. Avoid using bots or tools that promise to increase followers or engagement, as they often violate Instagram’s terms of service.

Before you head to the Instagram help center to register a complaint, try the tricks above and troubleshoot the issue for your account.