Shadowban is a mysterious phenomenon on Instagram that is affecting more and more accounts on the platform. For example, are you noticing that your posts are suddenly getting far fewer likes and comments? Or that your hashtags are no longer working? This could be a sign of a shadowban - an invisible restriction imposed by Instagram that makes your content less visible.
In this blog you will discover:
What is a Shadowban on Instagram?
A shadowban means that Instagram makes your content less visible without notifying you. This can look like this:
In other words, it looks like Instagram is punishing you, but without letting you know what you did wrong. Of course, this can be hugely frustrating, especially if you're working hard on your content.
Why Does Instagram Give a Shadowban?
Instagram created the shadowban for a reason. It protects users from spam, fake accounts and unwanted behavior. If the platform suspects you are "manipulating" the algorithm or your account looks suspicious, it can restrict you. These are the most common reasons:
1. You Use Forbidden or Repeated Hashtags.
Instagram has a list of hashtags that are considered "banned. These can be hashtags that are frequently misused or contain inappropriate content. Also, if you keep using the same set of hashtags without alternating, Instagram may see this as spam.
Solution:
2. Too Much Activity in Short Time
Have you followed hundreds of accounts or liked many posts in a short period of time? If so, Instagram may see you as a bot and restrict your account.
Solution:
3. Use of Bots or Automation Tools.
Some people use bots or external tools to increase their followers or engagement. This is against Instagram's guidelines and can lead to a shadowban or even a total ban from your account.
Solution:
4. Buying Followers or Likes
It may seem tempting to get lots of followers quickly, but Instagram recognizes fake followers and fake likes. This can cause your account to be limited.
Solution:
5. Being Reported Too Often by Other Users.
If your account is frequently reported, such as because of spam or inappropriate content, Instagram may restrict you. This usually happens if you send unwanted messages, over-promote or use clickbait tactics.
Solution:
How Do You Check If You're Shadowbanned?
The frustrating thing about a shadowban, is that you don't receive any notification about it. Do you suspect you have been affected by a shadowban? You can test this in the following way:
1️. Post a message with a unique hashtag you've never used before
2️. Ask someone who doesn't follow you to search for this hashtag
3️. Does your post not appear in the search results? Then you are probably shadowbanned
Other signs of a shadowban:
How Do You Recover a Shadowban?
If you are dealing with a shadowban, take these steps to resolve it:
Prevention is Better than Cure
The best way to avoid a shadowban is to use Instagram in an authentic and honest way. Here are some additional tips:
By being smart and strategic with your account, you avoid limiting your account for potential new followers (and customers!).
Do you suspect you've been hit with a shadowban? And need help resolving it and building your account organically? Then contact us and we'll get right to work on a personalized strategy!