Social media is a weird place to be for a newbie! There are certain things you may encounter on Instagram. Like “Instagram User” written with someone’s profile picture instead of their name. So what does it mean when it says Instagram User? We’ll discuss this in detail today, so hang tight!
Quick Answer:
If you are seeing “Instagram User” instead of a person’s name on Instagram then it simply means that the person has either permanently deleted their account, got banned, temporarily deactivated, or may have blocked you.
So if you come across “Instagram user” written instead of someone’s name in your DMs, it would always mean either of the scenarios that we discussed above.
You must have come across this “Instagram User” term while scrolling through your DMs. And when you go to that person’s profile, it says “User not found.” Now what does that mean? Let’s explore below in detail:
What Does it Mean When It Says Instagram User?
When you see “Instagram user” written instead of a user’s name on their profile that has no profile picture, there is always a good reason. So let’s explore the four main reasons why you are seeing this:
Permanent Account Deletion
The person went for permanent deletion of his account. In other words, the user has erased his presence from Instagram.
In this case, you won’t be able to see the user’s profile. However, if you had any previous chat with the user before, then the chat will stay visible.
Moreover, if you attempt to send a message, it won’t allow you to. Since the user’s account no longer exists.
Temporary Deactivation
Another possibility would be that the IG user may have temporarily deactivated their account. In this case, you can also see the same “Instagram User” text appear instead of their name.
While the past conversations will still stay visible. And once the user activates his account, it will come back online again and his name will show up.
Account Suspension
Their account must have been suspended by Instagram. This is why you are seeing “Instagram User” appearing with their blank DP. Now account ban happens when you violate Instagram’s community standards.
It is important to follow Instagram’s community guidelines to never get banned. In a scenario where you have posted an inappropriate image, harassed someone, or posted an explicit video, then your account will be suspended.
The first ban will be temporary but as you keep on violating the IG policies, you will get permanently banned.
Afterwards, the “Instagram User” label will appear instead of your name when someone else sees your profile from the chatroom (DMs).
You Have Been Blocked by The User
If you constantly see “Instagram User” in DMs, it also means that the person may have blocked you. Because yes this happens when you get blocked by the user. People block others to prevent interactions.
No need to worry about it, the person may want to take a break. Or you may have offended that person. Whatever the case is, it will only go away when the person unblocks you.
What Does It Mean When It Says “User Not Found”, on Instagram?
If you visit someone’s profile through a link or through the DMs and when it says “User not found”, it also means that the user has deactivated his account permanently. Or the user may have blocked you. The meaning is the same as we discussed above.
I work at Likes Geek as a marketing researcher and journalist with over 5 years of experience in media and content marketing. With a demonstrated history of working in the international news and financial technology publishing industries. I manage content and the editorial team at Likes Geek.