How to Stop Auto Following on Instagram

If you've noticed your Instagram following count increasing without your permission, your account might be compromised. Instagram doesn't have an auto-follow feature, so this usually means someone else has access to your account.

Scammers and hackers often use compromised accounts to follow random profiles, boosting fake engagement. Here's how to regain control and secure your account.

Why Instagram Accounts Auto Follow Random People

There are three main reasons why your Instagram might be following accounts automatically:

• Account compromise - Hackers have gained access to your login credentials
• Third-party apps - Connected apps have permission to follow accounts on your behalf
• Automation tools - Bots or scheduling tools may be malfunctioning

Step 1: Remove Third-Party App Access

Third-party apps connected to your Instagram account can sometimes follow accounts without your knowledge. Here's how to remove them:

1. 1.Open Instagram in your web browser and log into your account
2. 2.Click your profile icon in the top-right corner
3. 3.Click the Settings icon (looks like a gear)
4. 4.Select "Apps and Websites" from the menu
5. 5.Under the "Active" tab, remove all listed apps

This immediately revokes their access to your account.

Step 2: Change Your Password

After removing third-party apps, update your password to prevent unauthorized access:

1. 1.Open the Instagram app and go to your profile
2. 2.Tap "Edit Profile"
3. 3.Select "Password" and create a strong, unique password
4. 4.Make sure you're not using this password anywhere else

Step 3: Enable Two-Factor Authentication

Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to your account:

1. 1.Go to Settings > Security
2. 2.Tap "Two-Factor Authentication"
3. 3.Choose either text message or authentication app
4. 4.Follow the setup instructions

With 2FA enabled, even if someone gets your password, they can't access your account without the verification code.

Step 4: Check Login Activity

Review where your account is currently logged in:

1. 1.Go to Settings > Security
2. 2.Tap "Login Activity"
3. 3.Review all devices and locations
4. 4.Log out of any unfamiliar devices

This ensures you're the only person with access to your account.

What to Do If the Problem Continues

If you've tried all these steps and your account still follows random accounts, report the issue to Instagram:

1. 1.Go to Settings and Privacy > Help
2. 2.Select "Report a Problem"
3. 3.Describe the auto-following issue

Instagram's support team can investigate and help secure your account if it's been compromised beyond what you can fix yourself.

Taking these security measures will stop the auto-following and protect your account from future unauthorized access.