Did you know that Instagram keeps collecting your data even after you hit delete? In fact, your personal information, photos, and activity logs can remain in their backup storage long after you've decided to leave the platform.
Whether you're concerned about privacy, need a digital detox, or simply want to step away from social media, knowing how to delete instagram account on phone is crucial. However, it's not as straightforward as it might seem. During the deletion process, Instagram first puts your account in a 30-day deactivation period, giving you time to change your mind. After that, it can take up to 90 days to completely remove all your data from their servers.
We understand the importance of managing your digital presence securely. That's why we've created this comprehensive guide to help you navigate through the permanent deletion process, whether you're using an iPhone or Android device. Let's walk through the steps to ensure your Instagram exit goes smoothly.
Understanding Instagram Account Deletion vs. Deactivation
Many Instagram users confuse account deactivation with permanent deletion. Understanding the difference is crucial before deciding which option suits your needs.
Key differences between deletion and temporary deactivation
Temporary deactivation acts as a pause button for your Instagram presence. When you deactivate your account, it becomes invisible to other users, but all your photos, comments, likes, and followers remain intact. Essentially, you can return anytime by simply logging back in. Instagram limits this option to once per week.
Permanent deletion, meanwhile, completely erases your digital footprint from the platform. This irreversible process removes your profile, photos, videos, comments, likes, and followers permanently. Consequently, if you're looking for a temporary break, deactivation is your better option, while those seeking to minimize their online presence should choose deletion.
What happens to your data in each case
With temporary deactivation, Instagram retains all your data on their servers. Your profile remains dormant but intact, ready for whenever you decide to return.
For permanent deletion, the process is more complex. After initiating deletion, your content is immediately removed from your account and moved to "Recently Deleted". During the 30-day waiting period, this content isn't visible to other Instagram users but remains subject to Instagram's Terms of Use. Furthermore, you can access this content during this window to either restore it or permanently delete it.
Timeline for permanent account removal
The permanent deletion timeline follows a specific schedule:
- First 30 days: Your account enters a deactivation state where you can still log in to cancel the deletion.
- Up to 90 days: Once the 30-day window passes, Instagram begins the complete deletion process, which can take up to 90 days to finish.
Although the visible deletion happens within the first month, Instagram may retain copies of your data in backup storage even after the 90-day period for disaster recovery, software errors, or legal obligations. This extended retention primarily applies to backup systems, not the public-facing platform.
Before permanently deleting your Instagram account on phone, consider requesting a data download which can take up to 30 days to receive.
How to Delete Instagram Account on iPhone
With recent updates from Meta, permanently removing your Instagram account on iPhone has become much simpler. Previously, users needed to access a web browser, but now the process can be completed entirely within the iOS app.
Accessing account settings on iOS
To begin the deletion process on your iPhone:
- Open the Instagram application and log into your account
- Tap your profile icon located in the bottom-right corner of your screen
- Look for the hamburger menu (three horizontal lines) in the top-right corner and tap it
- Select Settings from the menu options that appear
Navigating to deletion options
There are actually two paths you can take to delete your account:
Method 1:
- From Settings, tap Account
- Scroll down and select Delete account
Method 2:
- From Settings, tap Accounts Center
- Select Personal Details
- Tap Account ownership and control
- Choose Deactivation or deletion
- Select the Instagram account you wish to delete
Confirming permanent deletion
Once you've reached the deletion screen:
- Choose between temporarily deactivating or permanently deleting your account
- Select Delete account option (note: Instagram clearly warns that deletion is permanent)
- Enter your password when prompted
- Select a reason for deleting your account from the dropdown menu
- Tap Delete account again to confirm your decision
What to expect after deletion request
After submitting your deletion request:
- Your account enters a 30-day "pending deletion" period during which you can still log back in to cancel the deletion
- Your profile becomes invisible to other Instagram users immediately
- Following the 30-day window, Instagram begins the complete deletion process
- The full deletion process can take up to 90 days to complete on Instagram's servers
It's worth noting that even after the 90-day period, Instagram may keep certain information for legal issues, terms violations, or harm prevention efforts. Additionally, unlike simply deleting the app from your device (which leaves your account intact), this process permanently removes your data from Instagram's servers.
How to Delete Instagram Account on Android
Deleting your Instagram account on Android devices follows a slightly different path compared to iOS, yet achieves the same permanent result. The Android app interface offers a straightforward way to permanently remove your presence from this social platform.
Finding account settings in Android app
Locating the account settings on your Android device requires navigating through several menu options:
- Open the Instagram app and sign in to your account
- Tap your profile picture in the bottom-right corner
- Select the menu icon (three horizontal lines) in the top-right corner
- Tap Settings and privacy from the menu options
- Scroll down to find Accounts Center and tap on it
Step-by-step deletion process
Once you've accessed the Accounts Center, follow these steps to permanently delete your Instagram account:
- Tap Personal details within the Accounts Center menu
- Select Account ownership and control
- Choose Deactivation or deletion
- Select the Instagram account you wish to permanently delete
- Choose Delete account (not "Deactivate account") and tap Continue
- Select your reason for deleting from the dropdown menu
- Enter your password when prompted
- Tap Delete account to confirm your decision
Handling confirmation prompts
During the deletion process, you'll encounter several confirmation screens designed to prevent accidental account removal:
- First prompt: Instagram will ask if you're sure you want to delete your account rather than temporarily deactivate it
- Second prompt: You'll need to select a reason for leaving from a dropdown menu
- Final verification: You must enter your password correctly to proceed with deletion
Some Android users report seeing a "Wrong Password" error despite entering correct credentials. If this happens, try clearing the app cache or completing the process through a web browser instead.
Remember that after initiating deletion, your account enters a 30-day waiting period before permanent removal begins. During this time, your account is deactivated but recoverable by simply logging back in. After 30 days, the full deletion process starts, which can take up to 90 days to complete on Instagram's servers.
Backing Up Your Instagram Data Before Deletion
Before hitting that delete button, securing a backup of your Instagram memories is a crucial step many users overlook. Instagram offers a built-in tool that lets you download everything from your photos to your direct messages.
Requesting your data download
Backing up your Instagram content involves a straightforward process:
- Open the Instagram app and go to your profile
- Tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines) in the top-right corner
- Select "Your Activity" and scroll to the bottom
- Tap "Download your information" and enter your email address
- Input your Instagram password and tap "Done"
Alternatively, on a computer:
- Visit Instagram's website and log in
- Click your profile picture and select "Settings"
- In the left sidebar, choose "Privacy and Security"
- Select "Request Download" under "Data Download"
- Enter your email and password, then click "Request Download"
What information is included in your backup
Your Instagram data package is remarkably comprehensive, containing:
- Photos and videos you've posted
- Stories and Instagram Live content
- Direct messages and group chats
- Comments you've made or received
- Likes and account interactions
- Profile information and bio details
- Search history and browsing activity
Plus, you'll receive a record of your saved posts, story sticker interactions, and even information about fundraisers or monetization activities you've participated in.
How long to wait for your data
After submitting your request, Instagram typically processes your data within 48 hours. However, in some cases, this process may take up to 30 days.
Once ready, Instagram sends a download link to your verified email address. This link remains active for only 4 days after delivery, so promptly save your files when you receive the notification.
The downloaded data comes in either HTML or JSON format, with HTML being easier to navigate through the included index.html file. For JSON files, you may need a converter tool to view them properly in a readable format.
Securing this backup provides peace of mind and ensures you don't lose your digital memories once you permanently delete your Instagram account.
Troubleshooting Common Deletion Problems
Encountering obstacles when trying to delete your Instagram account? You're not alone. Many users face specific challenges that can make the process frustrating. Let's address the most common issues and their solutions.
How to delete instagram account without password
Forgetting your password doesn't mean you're stuck with an unwanted account. According to Instagram's official guidelines, you cannot directly delete an account without knowing the password. Thankfully, there's a workaround:
- Visit Instagram's password reset page or tap "Forgot password?" in the app
- Enter your username, email, or phone number associated with the account
- Follow the reset link sent to your email or phone
- Create a new password
- Use this new password to complete the deletion process
Admittedly, if you've lost access to both your password and the email/phone number linked to your account, your options become limited. Some users attempt reporting the account as an impersonation, though this approach isn't officially supported.
What to do if deletion doesn't process
Sometimes Instagram refuses to process deletion requests despite following all steps correctly. Common issues include:
- Password rejection - Users report Instagram changing their password automatically or showing "Wrong Password" errors repeatedly
- App glitches - The deletion process returns to the home screen unexpectedly
To resolve these issues, firstly ensure all pending actions on your account are completed. Subsequently, verify account ownership and check your security measures. Above all, try accessing Instagram through a different device or web browser rather than the app.
Recovering an account during the 30-day window
Changed your mind about deletion? Simply log back in with your username and password anytime within the 30-day grace period. As soon as you log in, Instagram considers your account reactivated, canceling the deletion process entirely.
Remember that once the 30-day window closes, Instagram begins permanent deletion, which can take up to 90 days to complete. Particularly worth noting is that after this point, recovery becomes impossible even through customer support channels.
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