Instagram has emerged as one of the most widely used social media platforms in Malaysia, boasting more than 26 million active users as of 2023.
Nonetheless, there are occasions when you may contemplate taking a hiatus from the app or permanently deleting your account. Such considerations might stem from concerns related to privacy, mental well-being, online safety, monotonous content, or a desire to streamline your digital presence.
Regardless of your motive, the process of deleting your Instagram account is more straightforward than you might imagine. In fact, you can accomplish it in just five easy steps. However, it’s essential to grasp the distinction between deactivating and deleting your account before proceeding.
Deactivating vs Deleting Your Instagram Account
Understanding the distinction between deactivating and deleting your Instagram account is crucial:
Deactivating Your Account: Deactivation entails temporarily disabling your Instagram account. While deactivated, your profile, photos, videos, comments, likes, and followers will remain hidden from view until you decide to reactivate it by logging back in. You have the option to deactivate your account once a week.
Deleting Your Account: Deleting your Instagram account is a permanent action. It involves the complete removal of your profile, including photos, videos, comments, likes, and followers. After deletion, you won’t be able to use the same username or email address to create a new account. It’s important to note that you can only delete your account using a web browser; this option is not available within the app.
If you’re uncertain about permanently deleting your account, you can opt to deactivate it first. This allows you to take a break and assess your feelings. Should you have a change of heart, you can reactivate the account or proceed with permanent deletion at a later time, providing flexibility in managing your Instagram presence.
How to Deactivate Your Instagram Account
If you want to deactivate your Instagram account temporarily, follow these steps:
- Go to instagram.com on a web browser. You cannot deactivate your account from the app.
- Log in with your username and password.
- Click on your profile picture in the top right corner and select Profile.
- Click on Edit Profile next to your username.
- Scroll down and click on Temporarily disable my account at the bottom right.
- Select a reason for deactivating your account from the drop-down menu.
- Re-enter your password and click on Temporarily Disable Account.
- Confirm by clicking on Yes.
Your account will be deactivated and you will be logged out. To reactivate your account, simply log back in with your username and password.
How to Delete Your Instagram Account
If you want to delete your Instagram account permanently, follow these steps:
- Go to the Delete Your Account page on a web browser. You cannot delete your account from the app.
- Log in with your username and password.
- Select a reason for deleting your account from the drop-down menu.
- Re-enter your password and click on Permanently delete my account.
- Confirm by clicking on OK.
Your account will be deleted and you will be logged out. You will not be able to recover your account or use the same username or email address again.
Why Do People Delete Their Instagram Accounts?
People opt to delete their Instagram accounts for various reasons, and some of the most common motivations include:
- Privacy Concerns: Worries about Instagram’s data collection practices, particularly in light of recent changes in its terms of service, may drive individuals to seek more control over their personal information. They may also aim to safeguard their online identity from potential threats like hackers, stalkers, or unwanted followers.
- Mental Health: Some users find that their interactions on Instagram have a negative impact on their mental well-being. The platform can contribute to feelings of anxiety, depression, or insecurity. Additionally, incidents of cyberbullying, harassment, or hate speech from other users can be detrimental to mental health.
- Online Safety: Safety concerns are paramount for some individuals, especially when they hear about cases linking Instagram to suicide, violence, or political unrest. They may also aim to protect themselves from scams, phishing attempts, or malware targeting Instagram users.
- Simplicity and Screen Time: A desire to simplify one’s digital life and reduce screen time can be a motivating factor. Some users seek to shift their focus toward other aspects of life, such as spending more time with family and friends, prioritizing work, or engaging in hobbies and activities that bring fulfillment.
These motivations underscore the importance of assessing one’s relationship with social media platforms like Instagram and making choices that align with their well-being, privacy, and personal goals.
Conclusion
The decision to delete your Instagram account is deeply personal and rests solely in your hands. Prior to taking action, it’s essential to consider the advantages and disadvantages of either keeping or deleting your account. Additionally, it’s wise to safeguard your data and communicate your intentions with your followers.
Should you opt for deletion, the straightforward five-step process outlined above can guide you through it seamlessly. Keep in mind that if you’re uncertain about permanently erasing your presence, you have the option to temporarily deactivate your account as a less definitive alternative.
We hope this article has helped you understand how to delete your Instagram account and why people do it. If you have any questions or feedback, feel free to leave a comment below.