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A softer alternative to blocking. Learn how Instagram's restrict feature works and when to use it.
Quick Answer
Restricting someone hides their comments from others, moves their DMs to requests, and hides your online status from them—all without them knowing. They can still see your content; it's just a quieter way to limit interactions.
Their comments
Only visible to them (unless you approve)
Your DMs from them
Moved to Message Requests, no read receipts
Your active status
Hidden from them
Their ability to see when you read
Disabled
Your posts/stories
Still visible to them
Follow status
They stay following you
| Feature | Restrict | Block | Mute |
|---|---|---|---|
| Can see your profile | ✓ | ✗ | ✓ |
| Can comment | Hidden* | ✗ | ✓ |
| Can DM you | Requests* | ✗ | ✓ |
| Sees your online status | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ |
| They know? | No | Maybe | No |
*Hidden = only visible to them unless approved. Requests = goes to message requests folder.
Search for or tap on the person you want to restrict
Tap the three dots (•••) in the top right corner
Tap 'Restrict' from the menu options
Tap 'Restrict Account' to confirm. They won't be notified
Pro tip: You can also swipe left on a comment from the person and tap the restrict icon (⚠️) to restrict them directly.
Managing your Instagram connections?
Before deciding who to restrict, find out who unfollowed you and who's not engaging with your content.
Check your followersWhen you restrict someone: (1) Their comments on your posts are only visible to them unless you approve them, (2) Their DMs go to your Message Requests folder, (3) They can't see when you're active or when you've read their messages, (4) They can still see your posts and stories. It's a subtle way to limit someone's interaction without them knowing.
No, Instagram doesn't notify users when they're restricted. They might eventually notice subtle signs like their comments not getting responses from others or not being able to see your online status, but there's no direct notification or indication.
Block is complete: they can't see your profile, posts, or message you. Restrict is subtle: they can still see your content and think they're commenting/messaging normally, but their interactions are limited. Block burns bridges; restrict quietly manages them.
Yes, restricted accounts can still see your stories, posts, and profile. The restriction only affects their comments (hidden from others), DMs (moved to requests), and their ability to see your online status.
Go to their profile → tap the three dots (•••) → select 'Unrestrict'. Alternatively, go to Settings → Privacy → Restricted accounts → tap 'Unrestrict' next to their name. They won't be notified when you unrestrict them.
Yes, their likes on your posts are still visible and count toward your total. The restriction only hides their comments (unless approved) and limits DM functionality. Likes work normally.
Yes, you can restrict any account on Instagram, whether they follow you or not. This is useful for limiting interactions from people who comment on your public posts or try to DM you.
Messages from restricted accounts go to your 'Message Requests' or 'Hidden Requests' folder instead of your main inbox. You can read them without the sender knowing you've seen them. No read receipts are sent.