If you’ve been using Instagram regularly and suddenly notice a decline in engagement rate or a drop in the number of views on your posts, it could be a sign that your account is under an Instagram shadowban.
This type of restriction can damage your account, but there are methods you can try to fix this issue. In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about how to avoid Instagram shadowban to boost your Instagram visibility.
What Is An Instagram Shadowban?
Now that you know the shadowbanned meaning, we need to check how long it lasts. Even though shadowban is not an official Instagram term, we can not deny it. This term refers to limiting and blocking users’ Instagram accounts in a way that they are unaware of. This means you will not receive notifications and messages if you get shadowban on Instagram.
So, how does Instagram shadowban your account without you knowing? If you get shadowbanned, your content will not appear on users’ feed pages unless they follow you. It means your visibility will decrease as your content won’t appear on the Instagram Explore page.
How Long Does an Instagram Shadowban Last?
To keep their community safe, Instagram shadowbans the accounts that don’t comply with their terms and guidelines. But how long does Instagram Shadowban last? Unfortunately, there is no answer to this question. But in most cases, it will last two to three weeks.
How To Know If You’re Shadowbanned On Instagram?
If all of a sudden you notice engagement drops or a decrease in the number of your views, you might be experiencing an Instagram shadowban. But to make sure, there are some methods you can try.
1. Hashtag Search
One of the most obvious signs of an Instagram Shadowban is a reduced presence in hashtag search results. This means even when you add relevant hashtags to your post, it will not appear on the hashtag’s page. Here’s how to check:
- Select a hashtag that you frequently use in your posts.
- Open the Instagram app and share a photo using that hashtag. (Make sure you have a public profile).
- Ask some of your friends to check the hashtag page to see if they can view your post.
- If your post is absent from the hashtag feed, it’s a sign that you might be shadowbanned on Instagram.
2. Use Instagram Shadowban Checker Tools
Looking for a quick answer to how to know if you’re shadowbanned on Instagram? Some Instagram shadowban test tools such as Triberr and The Heist analyze your page and the hashtags you use to check if you have an Instagram shadowban.
How To Avoid Instagram Shadowban?
Instead of letting the restriction happen and then trying to fix it, it’s better to avoid it in the first place. Here are some simple rules to have in mind and avoid for your content.
1. Stick To The Community Guidelines
Similar to any other platform, Instagram has certain rules and conditions for the content you share on the app. To prevent getting shadowbanned on Instagram, make sure to read Instagram’s Community Guidelines and terms of service.
2. Avoid Bot-like Actions
As you know, Instagram is against any type of spam and bulk actions; no matter if it’s done manually or using a third-party tool. There are different opinions on Instagram’s limitations and rules but one thing is clear, performing bulk actions in a short time can lead to shadowban on Instagram.
For example, if you decide to clean your following list and unfollow 400 accounts in an hour, Instagram thinks you are a bot. This can cause getting action blocked, banned, or shadowban Instagram restriction.
3. Don’t Use Banned Hashtags
Instagram has a list of banned hashtags, which are usually associated with inappropriate or spammy content. But it’s not just inappropriate hashtags that are banned; Sometimes Instagram decides to limit or hide content using some keywords. For example, #Snapchat is on the list of banned tags.
Using these types of hashtags can lead to ig shadow ban. So, always research the hashtags you want to use and avoid banned ones. There are some shadowban checker Instagram tools that can help you avoid unwanted banned tags.
Read Also: 5 Best Instagram Hashtag Generators In 2023
4. Don’t Buy Fake Followers
You may have heard it many times before, but it’s worth repeating. Buying Instagram followers can make your account get shadowbanned or even banned for a long time. Purchasing fake followers or engagement might temporarily boost numbers, but it’s a red flag for the Instagram algorithm.
Instead, focus on growing your audience organically with real, engaged followers. Using untrustworthy third-party tools to manage your account can have the same result: a potential ban on your account.
5. Use A Content Warning For Sensitive Topics
For those using Instagram to share news or cover true crime cases, your account is more at risk of getting shadowbanned on Instagram. Instagram can mistakenly think you are sharing something against the guidelines and blur your content or add ‘Sensitive Content’ text to it.
To avoid this type of issue, you can inform viewers and Instagram that your content is for raising awareness and is not violating any guidelines.
FAQs
Now that you know everything about Instagram Shadowban, let’s answer some of the most frequently asked questions on this topic.
1. Is There A Way To Prevent A Shadowban Entirely?
While there’s no foolproof way to guarantee you won’t face a shadowban, you can significantly reduce the risk by following Instagram’s guidelines, avoiding spammy practices, and engaging genuinely with your audience.
2. Can Using Third-Party Scheduling Tools Lead To A Shadowban?
Generally, using reputable third-party scheduling tools is safe. However, excessive automation or using unverified and spammy tools can raise flags and potentially lead to a Shadowban.
3. How Can I Check If I’ve Been Shadowbanned On Instagram?
Instagram doesn’t provide an official notification for shadowbans. However, you can monitor your post engagement, and hashtag reach, and ask friends to check if your posts are visible under relevant hashtags to detect signs of a shadowban.
4. Is There A Difference Between A Shadowban And A Content Removal Or Account Suspension?
Yes, a Shadowban restricts the visibility of your content, while content removal involves Instagram taking down specific posts for violations. Account suspension is a more severe action that temporarily or permanently restricts access to your account.
Conclusion
Are you losing your video views and audience on Instagram? One possible reason can be an Instagram shadowban restriction. In this article, we’ve shown you why this limitation happens and how to avoid it to keep your account on top.
