How not to receive messages on Instagram from unknown people

In today’s digital age, social media platforms have become an integral part of our lives. One of the most popular platforms is Instagram. With millions of daily active users, it has become a hub for connecting with friends, family, and even strangers who share similar interests. However, with its vast user base, it is not uncommon to receive messages from unknown people. While some interactions can be harmless or even pleasant, it is important to prioritize online safety and privacy. This article will guide you on how to effectively manage your Instagram settings to prevent receiving messages from unknown individuals.

1. Set Your Account to Private: The first step in protecting yourself from unsolicited messages is to set your Instagram account to private. By doing this, only approved followers can view your posts and send you direct messages. To switch to a private account, go to your profile, tap on the three horizontal lines at the top right corner, select Settings, then Privacy, and finally Account Privacy. Enable the option that says “Private Account.”

2. Filter Message Requests: Even with a private account, you may still receive message requests from unknown users. Instagram has a feature that allows you to filter these requests. Open your DMs, tap on “Message Requests,” and you’ll see a list of all the requests you’ve received. From there, you can choose to either Accept or Decline the requests. This way, you can filter out messages from people you do not wish to interact with.

3. Restrict and Block: In some cases, you may encounter persistent or inappropriate messages from unknown users. In such situations, it is recommended to restrict or block the individual. Restricting a user will prevent them from seeing when you are active on Instagram and when you have read their messages. To restrict someone, go to their profile, tap on the three dots at the top right corner, and select “Restrict.” If someone continues to bother you, consider blocking them by selecting “Block” from the same menu.

4. Disable Message Requests: If you prefer not to receive any message requests at all, Instagram provides an option to disable them entirely. However, keep in mind that this will prevent you from receiving messages from both known and unknown users. To disable message requests, go to your profile, tap on the three horizontal lines, select Settings, Privacy, Messages, and disable the “Allow Message Requests” option.

5. Use Keywords and Hiding Options: Instagram has also introduced features that help in curbing unwanted messages. You can create a list of specific keywords that, when mentioned in a message, will trigger a filtering system. To access this feature, go to your profile, tap on the three horizontal lines, select Settings, Privacy, Messages, and then enter the desired keywords under the “Custom Keywords” option. Additionally, Instagram allows you to hide messages containing offensive words, phrases, or emojis. To enable this, go to your profile, tap on the three horizontal lines, select Settings, Privacy, Messages, and enable the “Hide Offensive Words” option.

In conclusion, while Instagram offers a convenient platform for connecting with others, it is crucial to be vigilant about who can contact you and the messages you receive. By implementing the tips provided in this article, you can take control of your Instagram interactions and reduce the chances of receiving messages from unknown people. Remember, your online safety and privacy should always be a top priority.