How to Recover a Disabled Instagram Account

disabled instagram account

When your Instagram account is suddenly and unexpectedly disabled, especially during the holiday season, the feeling is similar to being locked out of your world. Without any warning, you just get that little cold and unfriendly message on your screen saying that your account is no more. If that’s the case of your disabled Instagram account taken down without any previous notice, then you are not the only one. The same thing happens quite a few times.

This blog is not made of empty or repetitive advice. It is a no-nonsense manual from someone who went through the same ordeal, tried everything, and finally figured out what works and what doesn’t. So if your Instagram account got penalized for something trivial or caught in a biased algorithm, let’s have a look at the steps that may be a way back home.

First Things First: What Does “Disabled” Even Mean?

The word “Disabled” might refer to several different situations depending on the extent to which the user’s behavior on Instagram’s platform violated the rules.
That time, it may be just:

  • An error
  • A breach (even the one that seems to be insignificant)
  • Consequences of being reported by others users
  • Automated bots that went off track

Instagram doesn’t even try to be very clear. And if we’re being completely honest, their communication is… well, it is almost non-existent. Most of the users when they try to argue the decision get the “Disabled accounts can’t be contacted” alert.

Man seeing his Instagram account disabled error message.

Types of Account Disabling

Before going down the recovery rabbit hole, identify the category of your account.

Temporarily Disabled

You took your own account out of action. That is the easiest one to turn back the other way. Simply log in once more and follow the instructions to reactivate. Also, if you’re curious about visual elements like typography, check out what font does Instagram use for a deeper look into Instagram’s design choices.

Disabled by Instagram

Your Instagram account was shut down by Instagram due to some violation of the rules. It’s the hard one, and that’s what most people mean when they say “instagram disabled my account.”

Suspended or Banned

Occasionally, Instagram suspends accounts while it is investigating or as a result of repeated violations. Not much difference in experience, but the terminology might be different.

User writing appeal to Instagram about suspended account.

Why Instagram Might Disable Your Account

ReasonDescription
Copyright InfringementPosted content without proper rights
Hate Speech or BullyingViolated community guidelines
Spam-Like BehaviorUsing bots, mass following/unfollowing
Fake Identity or ImpersonationPretending to be someone else (even as a joke)
Nudity or Inappropriate ContentEven artistic posts sometimes get flagged
Reports from OthersEnough reports can trigger auto-actions from Instagram

So How Do You Get Back Your Instagram Account?

If you were to ask whether there was a straightforward option to get back one’s account, the answer would be no. However, here is the approximate way:

Step 1 – Try to Log In

Though it seems a very simple thing, sometimes when you try to log in, a message pushing you to review your case may show up. If you get “My Instagram account was disabled,” it is probably showing you the steps to file an appeal.

Step 2 – Submit an Appeal

If you think your account was disabled by mistake, please use the following form to submit an appeal: https://www.instagram.com/hacked/

Complete the form with:

  • Full name
  • Email linked to the account
  • Your username
  • Mobile number
  • Description of the issue (Be brief, polite, and honest)

Do not sound like spam. Do not beg for mercy. Just be straightforward.

Step 3 – Submit Your ID (If Asked)

Perhaps, you may be required to provide a selfie with some handwritten characters or your ID photo for verification. Just go ahead and do it. As frustrating as it is, it is still the way to return.

Note: In a certain moment, you will receive a message saying ‘disabled accounts cannot be contacted.’ Nonetheless, you shouldn’t give up just yet. Really you should keep trying.

What If Instagram Suspended My Account Unfairly?

It is a difficult situation, that is how it is, especially when you are the victim.
In case of instagram suspended my account without any warning, be persistent and file as many appeals as you can. Don’t do that every day though – be moderate and do it once per a few days.

Some folks report that they succeeded through the Facebook support chat, notably if their Instagram was connected to a Facebook Business page. So, maybe, it’s worth it. And while you’re dealing with account settings, you might also want to check out how to change age on Instagram if that ever becomes relevant.

The Waiting Game (Yeah, It Sucks)

Some people get their accounts back within a few hours. Others must wait for weeks. It is difficult to tell what will happen.
Meanwhile, you should not create a new account with the same email or username as that could lead to more problems. Besides, try to be polite in all your dealings with others

BTW, if you are doing this for the fifth time this week how do I reactivate my instagram account yeah, you’re not the only one.

Tools and Tricks (No Hacks, Just Patience)

There is no way to escape reality but to face it – no tricks, no hack, no portal.
However:

  • In case you are out of region and locked out, use a VPN
  • Save the screenshots of the error messages
  • Keep a record of everything you do – times when you appealed, messages you got, IDs you sent

There are some individuals who claim that they have success when they send direct messages to the Twitter account @InstagramComms, but the outcome is not always like this.

The user is trying different means to communicate with Instagram support.

Avoiding This Mess in the Future

When/If you retrieve your account, don’t simply post as you used to.
It is better to:

  • Enable two-factor authentication
  • Not use shady third-party applications
  • Ensure that your bio, name, and content are appropriate
  • Do not mass-like or mass-follow
  • Do not share your log-in with others

Moreover, be alert if you have client accounts under your management. Their misconduct can lead to the suspension of your profile.

Real Talk

I understand. Your Instagram account disabled is not just a small matter. For some, it means the end of their business. For others, it is the loss of years of memories. Not getting it back would be the worst thing.

You can be on the right side of everything and yet find yourself caught in an algorithmic web. Or maybe you made a small mistake. Anyhow, you should be allowed to fix it

Be patient.

FAQ

1. How long does it take to recover a disabled Instagram account?
It is not the same for every user. Those who get their accounts back in 24-48 hours, and those who have to wait weeks.

2. Can I call Instagram support to recover my account?
There is no direct phone support. Only appeals and forms are the official channels.

3. What if Instagram says my account can’t be contacted?
It signifies that you are not allowed to appeal by their system. Keep trying with different forms and via Facebook support.

4. Can I create a new account with the same username?
Not if your former account is still in their database. Wait until the problem is solved.

5. Does submitting an ID guarantee account recovery?
There is no assurance, but most of the time it is a necessary stage in the process.

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