New Instagram Rules: How to Avoid Getting Banned and Stay in the Game
As of January 1, 2025, Instagram has initiated a large-scale crackdown. Outdated approaches, manipulative tactics, and prohibited practices are no longer effective. The new focus is on transparency, digital hygiene, and respect for your audience. Break the rules, and you risk getting banned. Want to stay at the top? Read on and follow the guidelines.
🚫 What’s No Longer Allowed
1️⃣ Prohibited Words
Instagram has tightened its control over certain words deemed violations of the rules.
The following words and their derivatives are banned:
These words cannot be used in text or hashtags. Also, avoid using offensive language.
⚠️ Important: Even if you replace letters with emojis or Latin characters, Instagram’s algorithms will detect it. They’ve become smarter.
2️⃣ Direct Calls to Action Are Outdated
Phrases like "follow," "like," "comment," "save," "repost," and "message me" are no longer effective. Users are not sheep—they have choices and will exercise them. Offer content they’ll naturally want to engage with.
Incorrect Example:
"Follow me, I’ve got lots of useful tips."
Correct Approach:
"In my profile, you’ll find plenty of useful insights on Instagram growth."
Avoid commanding or pressuring your audience. For example, invite direct messages with phrases like:
"Interested? Send me a DM."
3️⃣ Excessive Emojis and Exclamation Marks
Instagram algorithms flag text overloaded with emojis or exclamation marks.
- Use emojis sparingly to emphasize points rather than clutter the text.
- Limit exclamation marks to one, even if you’re brimming with excitement.
Overusing these elements can make your content appear spammy, reducing reach and triggering system suspicion.
4️⃣ Numbers and Exaggerations Are a No-Go
Mentioning specific figures like "zero to a million" or promises like "500k in a month" is risky. Instagram may flag such content as misleading or fraudulent.
For example, a phrase like "A funnel that earns me $300k to $1M" might be seen as a quick-money scheme or fraudulent activity. Even if your product is legitimate, algorithms may interpret it as a violation.
✅ Solution: Write in a way that feels safe to algorithms. Avoid specific numbers, bold promises, and manipulative phrasing. Focus on highlighting the value you offer.
5️⃣ Case Studies
Sharing case studies with extensive numerical data can raise red flags. If you want to share results, create a separate account for case studies. If that account gets flagged, your main account remains unaffected.
6️⃣ Hashtags: Use Them Wisely
Hashtags remain a valuable tool but require careful usage.
Too many or problematic hashtags can lead to bans.
7️⃣ Giveaways
Instagram is cracking down on giveaways. Calls to participate in giveaways in exchange for "likes, follows, or comments" will result in post removal or account bans.
What You Can Still Do:
❤️ Code Words or Emojis for Interaction
Instagram allows code words, emojis, and requests for followers to leave specific comments. For example:
"If you’re interested, comment ‘I want’ below, and I’ll send you the link."
⚠️ Caution:
If you use a chatbot to reply with "Responded in DMs" and this happens too frequently, Instagram might flag it as spam. This could lead to post removal or put your account at risk.
✅ Tip: Use officially approved servers for Instagram chatbots. Customize chatbot responses to vary messages:
- "Thanks for your interest. Check your DMs."
- "Hi! I’ve sent you a message. Take a look!"
- "All set. Waiting for you in DMs."
✔️ How to Stay in the Game
- Write Honestly: Use alternative wording, such as:
Instead of “free,” say “as a gift,” “🎁,” “complimentary,” or “at no cost.” - Work Smart with Texts: Ensure smooth transitions from posts to DMs, like:
"Interested? Message me." - Diversify Your Content: Avoid repetitive formats like "Part 1 here, rest on Telegram." This irritates both users and algorithms.
- Use Verified Links: Only share safe, legal, and relevant links.
☝🏻 Why It Matters
Instagram developed these rules based on extensive machine learning testing. If you don’t comply, your content could be flagged as a violation.
- Reduced reach
- Posts/Reels excluded from recommendations
- Content removal
- Account bans for repeated violations
- Even old posts/Reels may be deleted
Impact on Messaging Campaigns
If you’re running campaigns, adhering to these rules is your guarantee of success.
Messages with prohibited words may end up in hidden folders, delaying their delivery. Adapting content to these rules may also affect campaign launch timelines.
🎯 Final Takeaway
You’re in the game as long as you play by the rules. Want people to respect your content? Offer them value, honesty, and real benefits. Leave manipulative tricks and toxic content behind.
Instagram no longer tolerates low-quality content. Learn to create genuine, respectful, and high-quality posts. Let users decide what to like or save, and give them a reason to do so.