In a surprising move that sent shockwaves across the social media world, Instagram has deleted over 1.35 lakh accounts in one major sweep. For influencers, small business owners, content creators, and casual users alike, this announcement raised an important question: Was my account at risk too?
Let’s break down what happened, why it happened, and what it means for you.
What Happened: The Big Instagram Cleanup
Earlier this month, Instagram confirmed the deletion of more than 1.35 lakh profiles. This wasn’t random or accidental. The platform carried out this action as part of its ongoing efforts to build a safer, more authentic user experience.
Here’s what kind of accounts were deleted:
- Accounts using fake followers and bots
- Spam profiles flooding the platform with unwanted content
- Users violating community guidelines
- Profiles flagged for repeated suspicious behavior
This large-scale purge was a part of Instagram’s broader mission to eliminate fake followers on Instagram and crack down on manipulative growth tactics.
Why Instagram Did This
Instagram, owned by Meta, is under growing pressure to maintain its reputation as a trustworthy platform. With influencer fraud and fake engagement on the rise, Instagram had to take strong action.
The reasons behind this cleanup include:
- To reduce spam and bot activity
- To improve the quality of content
- To protect users from scams
- To enforce Instagram community guidelines more strictly
- To support creators who grow their accounts organically
Simply put, Instagram wants to reward authenticity and discourage shortcuts.
Who Got Affected?
The deleted accounts were not just bots or inactive profiles. Some belonged to users who had once bought followers, engaged in spammy behavior, or violated policies unknowingly. This caused panic among many influencers and content creators.
Red Flags That Put Accounts at Risk
Wondering if your account was in danger? These are the common practices that Instagram watches closely:
- 📈 Buying followers or likes (even once in the past)
- 🤖 Using bots or automated engagement tools
- 🚫 Posting content that violates guidelines (e.g., hate speech, nudity, misinformation)
- 🕵️♂️ Getting reported by other users multiple times
- 📮 Reposting copyrighted content without permission or credit
If you’ve stayed away from these activities, you’re probably safe. But if any of this sounds familiar, it’s time to clean up your act.
How to Keep Your Instagram Account Safe
If you want to ensure your account doesn’t get deleted in the future, follow these simple steps:
✅ Stick to Instagram’s Community Guidelines
✅ Avoid using bots or fake follower services
✅ Be consistent with your content—post regularly and stay on-brand
✅ Turn on two-factor authentication for extra security
✅ Engage meaningfully with your audience
✅ Avoid resharing content without permission
These small habits will help you build an account that’s both sustainable and safe.
Impact on Influencers and Small Businesses
The deletion of over 1.35 lakh accounts hit many influencers hard. For those relying on Instagram to promote brands or earn income, seeing a sudden drop in followers was stressful. But there’s a silver lining here.
- Losing fake followers improves your engagement rate
- Real followers are more likely to interact and buy from you
- Brands prefer genuine audiences over inflated numbers
- Your profile becomes more credible and algorithm-friendly
So while it might feel like a loss at first, it’s a step forward in the long run.
What to Do If Your Account Was Deleted
Think your account was removed by mistake? Don’t panic. Instagram allows you to appeal the decision.
Here’s how:
- Go to the Instagram Help Center
- Fill out the appeal form
- Submit any proof that supports your case (e.g., account history, email verification, etc.)
- Be respectful and patient during the process
Usually, Instagram takes a few business days to respond. If your account followed the rules, there’s a fair chance it could be restored.
Moving Forward: A Better Instagram?
Instagram’s cleanup isn’t just about deleting accounts—it’s about protecting its future. By removing fake and harmful profiles, Instagram is laying the foundation for a more authentic platform.
If you’re a genuine content creator or small business, this is your chance to shine. Here’s what to focus on:
- 🧠 Create value-driven, original content
- 🫶 Build real connections with your audience
- 📈 Use features like Reels, Stories, and Guides to engage
- 🚫 Say no to shortcuts and fake growth
- 💬 Start conversations, respond to comments, and be present
The age of inflated numbers is fading. What matters now is how real and helpful your content is.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. Why did Instagram delete 1.35 lakh accounts?
Instagram removed these profiles to fight fake engagement, spam, and violations of its guidelines. It’s part of a wider effort to clean the platform.
Q2. Will my account get deleted too?
Not if you follow the rules! If you avoid bots, spam, and content violations, you should be safe.
Q3. What if my account was wrongly deleted?
Visit the Help Center and file an appeal. Provide proof and wait for Instagram’s response.
Q4. Why did I suddenly lose followers?
Those were likely fake or inactive accounts removed by Instagram. Your real engagement may actually improve.
Q5. Are tools that automate likes or follows allowed?
No. These violate Instagram’s rules and can get your account flagged or deleted.
Q6. What’s the safest way to grow on Instagram in 2025?
Be real, be consistent, and build community. Use Reels, post regularly, and avoid shady shortcuts.
Final Thoughts
The deletion of 1.35 lakh Instagram accounts is a strong reminder: real is the new powerful.
As the platform continues to evolve, it’s clear that trust, authenticity, and connection are what truly matter. So whether you’re growing a brand or just sharing your life, focus on being genuine—and the rest will follow.
📌 Be authentic. Grow with integrity. And let your true story shine.
