Can People See If You Look At Their Instagram? Explained

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Learn who can see when you view their profile and when

Written by Candace Gasper | Edited by Rain Kengly

Last Updated: November 28, 2024 Fact Checked

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Can I view profiles?

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Can I view Stories?

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Making Your Account Private

Is there someone on Instagram you're curious about? If you're worried about getting caught being sneaky, don't worry. Instagram will only notify users if you watch someone's Story. You can view someone's profile as much as you want. Here's what to know about viewing Instagram profiles and how to hide your information.

Can You See Who Viewed Your Instagram?

Instagram users don't get notified for simple profile views. They won't be able to tell that you're looking at their Instagram unless you like a post or view their Story. As long as you keep to their profile and uploaded posts, you won't notify them.

Section 1 of 3:

Can someone see you viewed their Instagram profile?

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Instagram doesn't give notifications for profile views. If you simply visit another user's Instagram profile page, the user won't know. However, certain actions will notify the user, such as viewing their Story or Highlights (within 48 hours) and liking one of their posts.
- If you're worried about other people seeing your profile, consider making your account private.

Section 2 of 3:

Can you see who viewed your Story?

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Yes, Instagram shows who views a Story. If you watch another user's Story, you will appear on a list that the user can see. This can be easily checked in the Story options and stats, so be sure to avoid tapping any Stories if you want to remain undetected.
- If it has been over 48 hours since the Highlight was posted, you can watch it freely without notifying the user.
- Reels can be watched without being detected; just be sure you don't like the video.
- There are ways to view Instagram stories and Highlights anonymously, such as using an alternate account.

Section 3 of 3:

Making Your Account Private

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Tap your profile picture. This is in the bottom-right corner. You may also see a person icon.
- Use this method to make your account private. This will prevent users from seeing your profile and content unless they follow you.^{[1]
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This is in the top-right corner. A pop-up menu will open.
You can find this underneath the Who can see your content header.
You'll need to tap Switch to private to confirm. Your account will now be private.