Last update Jan. 15, 2025
How to protect myself?
Tips to maximize privacy and security while using Instagram.
- Set your account to private to control who can see your content.
- Enable two-factor authentication for added account security.
- Review and adjust privacy settings regularly.
- Be cautious when sharing sensitive personal information.
What happens when I sign up?
When signing up, Instagram collects basic information.
- Requires an email address, phone number, or Facebook account for registration.
- Logs IP address and device information during sign-up.
- May collect data on account recovery preferences.
Who can access my data?
Instagram’s data-sharing policies allow certain access.
- Your data is accessible to advertisers for ad targeting.
- Meta's internal teams use aggregated data for product improvements.
- Government requests for user data must comply with Meta’s policies.
How long is my data stored?
Instagram retains most user data until manually deleted.
- Content like posts and messages are stored indefinitely unless deleted.
- Deleted content may remain in backup systems temporarily.
- Account deletion permanently removes user data after a grace period.
How can I delete my data?
Instagram allows permanent account deletion through its Help Center.
- Go to the 'Delete Your Account' page in the Instagram Help Center.
- Account deletion permanently removes all photos, videos, and data.
- Deleted accounts cannot be recovered, and backups are removed within 30 days.
How are my data used?
Instagram collects and shares data for advertising and personalization.
- Activity and interactions are tracked for targeted ads.
- Data is shared across Meta services (Facebook, WhatsApp).
- Content interactions are used for recommendations.
Are there ethical concerns with the service's AI implementation?
Ethical concerns exist regarding AI usage on Instagram.
- AI algorithms may reinforce echo chambers and biases.
- Content recommendation AI can impact user mental health.
- Instagram provides limited transparency on AI moderation decisions.
Does this service use AI?
Instagram uses AI extensively for content recommendations and moderation.
- AI analyzes user activity to recommend posts, stories, and reels.
- Content moderation relies on AI to flag inappropriate or harmful content.
- Ad targeting uses AI to analyze user preferences and behavior.
Does this service support two-factor authentication?
Instagram supports two-factor authentication for added security.
- Two-factor authentication (2FA) can be enabled in account settings.
- Options include SMS codes or authentication apps.
- 2FA significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access.
What encryption methods does this service use?
Encryption is used for data transmission and storage.
- Data in transit is encrypted using TLS protocols.
- Stored passwords are hashed and encrypted.
- Specific encryption details for other stored data are not disclosed.
Is my data secure?
Instagram employs encryption and other measures to protect user data.
- Uses HTTPS to encrypt communication between users and Instagram servers.
- Account security can be enhanced with two-factor authentication.
- However, past security incidents highlight risks of data breaches.