Instagram is a powerful platform for connecting with friends, businesses, and influencers. However, to maintain a fair and authentic user experience, Instagram actively monitors suspicious activities. One common issue users face is the “Instagram we suspect automated behavior on your account” warning, which can lead to temporary restrictions or even bans. If you’ve received this message, don’t panic! This article will explain why Instagram flags accounts, how to resolve the issue, and best practices to avoid getting restricted in the future.

Table of Contents

What Triggers the “We Suspect Automated Behavior” Message?

Instagram flags suspicious activity based on its algorithmic detection systems. Below are the most common reasons users receive this warning:

1. Use of Bots and Automation Tools

Automated engagement may seem like a shortcut to growth, but Instagram strictly prohibits bot usage. The following actions can trigger the warning:

Mass Liking, Commenting, Following, and Unfollowing: Performing these actions at an unnatural speed suggests bot-like behavior.
Auto-DMs and Engagement Pods: Sending automated direct messages or participating in engagement groups that manipulate interactions can lead to restrictions.

2. Excessive or Unusual Activity

Unusual behavior patterns may raise red flags, leading Instagram to suspect automation. These include:

Sudden Spikes in Interactions: Rapid increases in likes, comments, or follows within a short period can be seen as artificial engagement.
Logging in from Multiple IPs/Devices: Accessing Instagram from various locations or devices within a short timeframe may appear suspicious.

3. Third-Party Apps Violating Instagram’s Terms

Not all third-party tools are safe to use. Some applications violate Instagram’s policies, including:

Unauthorized Scheduling Tools: While Instagram supports approved scheduling apps, unverified tools can trigger restrictions.
Apps Promising Followers or Engagement Boosts: Services that claim to increase followers or engagement often rely on automation, making them a violation of Instagram’s terms.

4. Violations of Instagram’s Daily Limits

Instagram imposes interaction limits to prevent spammy behavior. Exceeding these limits can trigger the warning:

Maximum Follows, Unfollows, Likes, and Comments: Instagram restricts how many actions can be performed daily. Exceeding these numbers can result in an action block.
New Accounts Face Stricter Limits: Recently created accounts are subject to more stringent restrictions to prevent spam.

5. Compromised or Hacked Accounts

Security concerns can also trigger the automated behavior warning. Common issues include:

Unauthorized Access Attempts: Repeated login failures or logins from unusual locations may indicate hacking attempts.
Suspicious Login Locations: If Instagram detects logins from locations that deviate from a user’s normal behavior, it may flag the account.

Consequences of Triggering the Warning

If Instagram suspects an account is engaging in automated behavior, it may impose penalties ranging from temporary restrictions to permanent bans.

1. Temporary Action Block (Soft Ban)

A soft ban limits user activity for a certain period. Affected users may experience:

Restrictions on liking, commenting, following, and sending DMs.
Blocks lasting anywhere from a few hours to several weeks, depending on the severity of the violation.

2. Verification Requests

To confirm that a real person operates the account, Instagram may request additional verification:

CAPTCHA Challenges: Users may be required to solve a CAPTCHA to continue using the platform.
Identity Verification: Instagram may ask for a phone number, email confirmation, or even a selfie verification to prove account authenticity.

3. Permanent Suspension or Ban

Repeated violations can lead to permanent consequences:

Account Disablement: If Instagram determines an account continuously violates policies, it may be disabled permanently.
Difficulty Recovering Banned Accounts: Once banned, regaining access to an account can be extremely difficult, and in most cases, Instagram does not provide a recovery option.

How to Avoid Instagram’s Automated Behavior Warning

To prevent Instagram from flagging your account, follow these best practices:

Avoid automation tools: Engage manually to maintain authentic interactions.
Stick to Instagram’s limits: Stay within safe engagement thresholds.
Use only approved third-party apps: Ensure any scheduling or analytics tools comply with Instagram’s policies.
Secure your account: Enable two-factor authentication and monitor login activity regularly.

By following these guidelines, users can protect their accounts and enjoy a seamless Instagram experience without restrictions.

How to Fix the “Instagram We Suspect Automated Behavior on Your Account” Issue and Regain Access

Receiving the dreaded “Instagram we suspect automated behavior on your account” message can be frustrating, especially if you rely on the platform for social networking, business, or personal branding. Instagram takes automated behavior seriously to maintain a safe and authentic user experience. If your account has been flagged, don’t worry—this guide will walk you through the steps to resolve the issue and prevent it from happening again.

Stop Using Automation Tools Immediately

One of the most common reasons for receiving this warning is using third-party automation tools that violate Instagram’s policies. These tools can trigger Instagram’s security algorithms, leading to restrictions on your account.

Disconnect Unauthorized Third-Party Apps

Many users unknowingly grant access to third-party apps that automate activities like liking, following, and commenting. To fix this:

Go to Instagram Settings – Open the Instagram app, tap on your profile, and navigate to Settings > Security > Apps and Websites.
Revoke Access – Check for any suspicious or unrecognized apps and remove their access.
Change Your Password – If you’ve used these tools, changing your password ensures they no longer have control over your account.

By disconnecting unauthorized apps, Instagram will recognize that your account activity is back to normal.

Verify Your Identity

To confirm that a real person is managing the account, Instagram may prompt users to verify their identity. Completing this process can help regain full access.

Follow Instagram’s Verification Prompts

If Instagram requests identity verification, follow the steps carefully. You may need to:

Complete a CAPTCHA test.
Verify your email or phone number.
Submit a selfie video to confirm your identity.

Change Passwords if the Account Is Compromised

If you suspect that unauthorized access triggered the warning, take immediate action:

Change your password – Use a strong, unique password.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) – This adds an extra security layer.
Check for unusual login activity – Under Settings > Security > Login Activity, look for unrecognized devices and log them out.

Reduce Activity for a Few Days

Instagram may flag accounts that engage in excessive actions like mass following, liking, or commenting within a short period. If you’ve been too active, it’s best to slow down.

Avoid Aggressive Actions Like Mass Following/Unfollowing

Rapidly following and unfollowing multiple accounts can make Instagram think you’re using a bot. Reduce these activities to avoid further restrictions.

Engage Naturally with Content

Instead of automated interactions, engage with posts and stories organically. Like, comment, and follow accounts at a natural pace to reassure Instagram that you’re a real user.

Check and Secure Your Account

Taking proactive steps to secure your Instagram account can prevent future issues.

Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Activating 2FA enhances security by requiring a verification code in addition to your password. This makes it harder for hackers or bots to gain access.

Review Login Activity for Suspicious Logins

Regularly check your login activity to spot any unauthorized access. If you notice unfamiliar devices, log them out immediately and change your password.

Appeal to Instagram (If Necessary)

If your account remains restricted despite following these steps, you may need to contact Instagram for help.

Steps to Submit an Appeal Through the Instagram Help Center

Go to the Instagram Help Center – Visit https://help.instagram.com and find the appeal form.
Provide Required Details – Fill out the form with your account information and explain the issue.
Be Patient – Instagram’s response times vary, so it may take a few days to hear back.

Patience and Response Expectations

Once you submit an appeal, avoid submitting multiple requests, as this can delay the process. If Instagram finds your account compliant, they will lift restrictions.

Preventing Future Automated Behavior Flags on Instagram

Receiving the “Instagram we suspect automated behavior on your account” warning can be frustrating, especially if the platform restricts interactions or temporarily disables an account. This issue often arises when Instagram detects bot-like activity, excessive engagement, or unauthorized third-party tools.

To avoid this situation, users should adopt best practices that align with Instagram’s policies. Below are actionable steps to maintain an account’s authenticity and prevent future automated behavior flags.

Use Instagram Organically

Instagram rewards authentic engagement. When users interact with content naturally, they reduce the risk of being flagged for automated behavior.

Engage with Content Manually

Manually liking, commenting, and following accounts ensures interactions appear genuine. Bots or automation tools can create patterns that Instagram’s algorithm detects, leading to potential restrictions.

Space Out Interactions Naturally

Rapid engagement—such as liking dozens of posts in seconds or following too many accounts at once—can trigger Instagram’s automated systems. Instead, users should space out their activity throughout the day to maintain a natural usage pattern.

Follow Instagram’s Daily Limits

Instagram has strict engagement limits to prevent spam-like behavior. Staying within these limits is crucial for avoiding automated behavior warnings.

Know the Safe Engagement Thresholds

While Instagram doesn’t publicly disclose its exact limits, users should be cautious about:

Likes – Avoid liking too many posts in a short period. A safe range is typically under 500 likes per day.
Comments – Excessive commenting, especially with repetitive messages, can raise red flags. Keep comments unique and engaging.
Follows & Unfollows – Rapidly following or unfollowing large numbers of accounts can appear automated. A safe limit is around 100–200 per day.

By staying within these thresholds, users can prevent Instagram from mistaking their activity for spam.

Avoid Suspicious Third-Party Apps

Many users unknowingly grant access to third-party tools that violate Instagram’s policies. Using unauthorized apps can lead to account restrictions or even permanent bans.

Use Only Instagram-Approved Tools

Instagram provides official business tools like Insights, Creator Studio, and shopping features. These are safe to use and comply with the platform’s guidelines. Users should avoid automation services that promise massive follower growth, as these often trigger security alerts.

If an account has been connected to an unapproved third-party app, revoking access immediately can help prevent further issues.

Maintain a Secure Account

A well-protected account is less likely to experience automated behavior warnings due to hacking attempts or suspicious logins.

Regularly Update Passwords

Changing passwords periodically helps prevent unauthorized access. Using a strong password with a mix of letters, numbers, and special characters is highly recommended.

Monitor for Unusual Login Activity

Users should frequently check their Instagram login activity in the settings. If there are unfamiliar locations or devices, logging out from those sessions and securing the account can prevent security issues.