Can’t Follow on Instagram? This Might Be Why You’re Restricted 

If you’ve tried to follow someone on Instagram and suddenly found yourself unable to, you’re not alone. Users frequently run into this problem, often without any clear explanation. While it might feel like a glitch at first, being unable to follow accounts may mean you are facing a restriction imposed by Instagram. Understanding why this happens can help avoid future issues and ensure your account remains in good standing.

Instagram’s security measures aim to protect its community from spam, bots, and other forms of abuse. As a result, the platform has introduced automatic restrictions that may affect the way users interact — including following others.

Why You’re Restricted from Following Users

There are multiple reasons Instagram might prevent you from following other accounts. Here are the most common ones:

• Following too many people too quickly: Instagram monitors mass following behavior and may temporarily block users who exceed its limits. This behavior is often associated with spam bots.
• Reached the follow limit: Instagram caps the number of people you can follow at approximately 7,500. Once you hit that ceiling, you must unfollow someone to follow new accounts.
• Account flagged as suspicious: If Instagram’s algorithm detects potentially suspicious or automated activity from your account, it may impose temporary restrictions.
• Violation of community guidelines: Posting inappropriate content, using banned hashtags, or being reported by others could result in limited actions, such as inability to follow new people.
• Temporary action block: Instagram sometimes issues a short-term block if you engage in repetitive activity — like liking, commenting, or following — in a short window of time.

How Long Do Restrictions Last?

Restrictions imposed by Instagram typically last from a few hours to a few days, depending on the nature and frequency of the flagged behavior. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Temporary restrictions: Generally last 24 to 48 hours.
• Repeated violations: May result in longer restrictions, and potentially a permanent action block if the account continues the same behavior.

During this period, you may not be able to follow, comment, or like posts. Trying to perform these actions repeatedly while restricted could extend the penalty.

How to Fix or Avoid the Restriction

If you’re currently restricted or want to avoid getting restricted in the future, follow these steps to stay on Instagram’s good side:

• Slow down your activity: Avoid mass following or commenting. Instagram favors organic and gradual interactions.
• Verify your account: Adding a phone number or linking your Facebook can make your account appear more trustworthy.
• Engage naturally: Limit your likes, comments, and follows to mimic typical user behavior.
• Wait it out: If you’re already restricted, give it some time. Refrain from trying to bypass the block, as it could worsen it.
• Report if it’s a mistake: Use the “Report a Problem” option under Instagram’s settings if you believe there was an error.

It’s also a good idea to stay informed about Instagram’s terms of service and community guidelines. Many violations happen unknowingly due to ignorance of the platform’s rules.

FAQ

• Q: How many people can I follow per day?
  A: Instagram doesn’t publicly share follow limits, but safe estimates suggest no more than 100–150 follows per day for established accounts, and even less for new ones.
• Q: What happens if I keep trying to follow during a restriction?
  A: You could extend the restriction or risk having your account permanently action-blocked.
• Q: Can using third-party apps cause Instagram to restrict my account?
  A: Yes. Using unauthorized apps to boost likes, followers, or automate actions is against Instagram’s policy and could lead to immediate restrictions or bans.
• Q: Is a restriction the same as being shadowbanned?
  A: No. Though similar, a restriction directly affects your ability to perform actions, while a shadowban typically affects content visibility.
• Q: Will deleting my app and reinstalling it remove the restriction?
  A: No. Restrictions are enforced on your account, not your device or app installation.

In short, being unable to follow on Instagram is often due to automated restrictions based on your activity. While it can be frustrating, understanding the causes and staying within Instagram’s guidelines can help you avoid future disruptions and keep your account healthy and active.