Is your Instagram reach dropping, or every time you post, you’re getting fewer views? You’re not alone. Lots of users are left asking themselves whether the Instagram algorithm is purposefully working against them. Truth is — it could be. The algorithm of the platform can act erratically from time to time, but sometimes there are various methods to escape what’s informally referred to as a shadowban — when Instagram subtly demotes your content’s visibility.
But let’s not jump into how to remedy this just yet. First, let’s get an understanding of what types of shadowbans exist and how maybe Instagram wasn’t so forthcoming about it.
The Myth (and Truth) About Shadowbanning
Back in 2018, Instagram held a press conference where they boldly claimed that shadowbanning isn’t a real thing. They insisted they don’t hide people’s content for overusing hashtags or taking certain actions. On examining Instagram’s terms of service more carefully, it becomes clear that the reality is different.
It turns out, there is content they deliberately don’t show as much as others. Some content never even appears on the Explore page. So, despite what Instagram officially said, Instagram reach dropping issues and shadowbanning are very real. In fact, after being caught filtering certain topics that probably shouldn’t have been filtered, they introduced a tool called Account Status.
This tool supposedly tells users whether they’ve been a ‘good kid’ in Instagram’s eyes and whether their reach is being restricted. Naturally, the first thing any user should do is head over to Settings → Account → Account Status and check what it says there. However, even if it claims there’s nothing wrong, that might not be the whole truth.
The Two Types of Instagram Shadowbans
After observing various accounts, it became clear there are essentially two main types of Instagram reach dropping shadowbans — both needing different solutions:
Type A: The Hard Block
This happens when a user does something that triggers an action block. It might be for posting certain content, removing posts, or even discussing sensitive topics (even if proven true later). In this scenario, there’s usually a sudden drop of 50-80% in engagement.
Fixing this kind is relatively straightforward:
- Stop doing activities that make you look like a spammer.
- If you get a comment block for 24 hours, avoid commenting for at least a week.
- Got a story block? Don’t test if it works before the block expires.
The more you test the limits of these blocks, the more flags Instagram’s algorithm will raise against you. This makes it harder to recover your reach.
Type B: The Slow Decline
This one’s trickier. It’s when your reach and engagement are declining gradually. Contrary to popular belief, it might not be the algorithm’s fault at all. In many cases, it’s because your content isn’t connecting with your audience anymore.
The Instagram algorithm constantly tracks how followers interact with your content. If engagement drops, the algorithm assumes your followers aren’t interested and limits your reach further.
The solution? Revisit your content strategy. Ask yourself:
- Who is my ideal audience?
- What type of content do they crave now?
The world evolves, fads change, and what your audience enjoyed six months ago might not be interesting anymore. Continuously improving your content strategy helps you keep in sync with your audience’s changing tastes.
How to Fix a Shadowban (Type A, Type B, or Both)
Whether you’re dealing with a hard block, a gradual decline, or a combination of both, here’s what can help:
- Report the issue: Every time you get an action block, tap the button to let Instagram know. Do it every time.
- Use the ‘Report a Problem’ feature: Go to Settings → Help → Report a Problem once a day. Describe the issue clearly and even attach screenshots if possible.
- Remove risky links: Avoid placing spammy links in your bio or frequently changing them. Also, it’s safer for now to avoid linking to other social platforms like YouTube.
- Stop using unapproved third-party tools: Many unofficial scheduling tools, analytics apps, or “who unfollowed you” trackers can get you flagged. Disconnect them from your account.
- Clean your follower list: Over time, your account gathers spam and fake followers. These clutter your audience pool and confuse the algorithm. Regularly removing these improves your engagement rate and helps Instagram show your content to genuine followers.
Long-Term Prevention: Post Smarter
Perhaps the most overlooked part of avoiding future shadowbans is being mindful of what and how you post. Instagram’s terms of service mention certain types of content that trigger shadowbans. Avoid posting these to stay safe.
Additionally:
- Be cautious with hashtags. Don’t overuse them, and check if your go-to hashtags have been flagged.
- Avoid controversial or flagged topics unless you’re ready to risk reduced visibility.
- Monitor your analytics regularly. Spot patterns in what content performs well and what causes dips in reach.
Final Thoughts
While Instagram shadowbanning has always been a bit of a mystery, patterns and solutions are emerging as more creators document their experiences. Understanding whether you’re dealing with a Type A hard block, a Type B gradual decline, or a mix of both is key to addressing the issue.
By smoothing out your content strategy, reporting issues, deleting spam followers, and keeping an eye on platform guidelines, you can reclaim your reach and engagement.
If you’re serious about guarding your content’s visibility and not falling into the Instagram reach dropping shadowban trap, it’s worth staying up-to-date with Instagram’s latest policies and periodically checking your account health.
It’s likely a Type A shadowban caused by action blocks or flagged behavior, or your content no longer resonates with followers, leading to poor engagement and decreased reach.
The algorithm limits content visibility when followers lose interest or if flagged behaviors occur. Also, older accounts gather spam followers over time, confusing the algorithm and reducing reach.
A sudden drop means you’ve either triggered an action block (Type A) or your audience is disengaged (Type B), often after posting irrelevant content or using flagged actions unknowingly.
Stop flagged behaviors, remove spam followers, review account status, report problems daily, avoid spammy links or unofficial tools, and realign your content strategy with what your audience currently wants.
Check Account Status, stop suspicious actions, avoid unofficial apps, remove spam followers, report problems daily, and adjust your content strategy to reconnect with your audience’s current preferences.
