You can delete your Instagram (IG) account through the Accounts Center in your Instagram app settings. Here's a step-by-step guide:
- Go to Your Profile: Tap your profile picture in the bottom right corner to go to your profile.
- Open the Menu: Tap the three horizontal lines (menu icon) in the top right corner.
- Access Settings and Privacy: Select "Settings and privacy."
- Navigate to Accounts Center: Tap on "Accounts Center." This is usually at the top of the settings menu.
- Personal Details: Under "Account settings," tap on "Personal details."
- Account Ownership and Control: Tap on "Account ownership and control."
- Deactivation or Deletion: Choose "Deactivation or deletion."
- Select Account: Select the Instagram account you want to delete. If you have linked accounts, make sure you select the correct one.
- Choose Delete Account: Select "Delete account" (as opposed to "Deactivate account"). Then, tap "Continue."
- Provide a Reason: You'll be asked to choose a reason for deleting your account. Select the reason that best applies to you from the drop-down menu and then tap "Continue." This is required.
- Re-enter Password: Enter your password to confirm that you are the account owner.
- Confirm Deletion: Tap "Delete [Account Name]" to permanently delete your account. A date will be given indicating when your account will be scheduled for permanent deletion. Instagram typically offers a grace period (e.g., 30 days) during which you can cancel the deletion if you change your mind by logging back into your account.
Important Considerations Before Deleting:
- Permanent Action: Deleting your account is permanent. You will lose all your photos, videos, followers, and other data.
- Data Download: Before deleting, consider downloading a copy of your data from Instagram. This can be done through the settings menu, usually under "Your Activity."
- Deactivation vs. Deletion: Make sure you choose "Delete account" and not "Deactivate account" if you want to permanently remove your profile. Deactivation only temporarily disables your account.
- Cancellation Window: As mentioned previously, if you log back into your account during the grace period, the deletion process will be cancelled, and your account will be reactivated.
