Instagram’s follow mechanics can be tricky to understand, especially with all the platform’s recent changes. Let me break down how following actually works and clear up some common misconceptions about automatic following.
Does Instagram Create Automatic Follows?
The short answer is no – Instagram doesn’t automatically follow accounts without user action. However, there are several situations where it might seem like automatic following is happening:
Facebook Friend Suggestions
If you’ve connected your Facebook account to Instagram, the platform will actively suggest Facebook friends to follow. While these aren’t automatic follows, they appear prominently in your feed and notifications, making it feel like they’re being forced on you.
The “Similar Account” Effect
When you follow someone new, Instagram’s algorithm immediately starts suggesting similar accounts. These suggestions can be so persistent that users sometimes think they’re automatic follows, but they still require your explicit action to follow.
Why You Might See Unexpected Follows
There are several legitimate reasons you might notice accounts you don’t remember following:
– Third-party apps you’ve authorized
– Forgotten follow actions during late-night scrolling
– Account interactions from shared devices
– Compromised account security
Protecting Your Follow List
To maintain control over who you follow, I recommend:
1. Regularly reviewing your following list
2. Using two-factor authentication
3. Checking third-party app permissions
4. Logging out on shared devices
Instagram’s 2025 Following Updates
As we move into 2025, Instagram continues to refine its following mechanics. The platform now provides clearer notifications when you follow someone and has implemented stronger security measures to prevent unauthorized account actions.
The Bottom Line
While Instagram’s algorithm is sophisticated, it still requires your permission to follow accounts. If you’re seeing unexpected follows, it’s worth investigating the cause rather than assuming it’s automatic. I’ve worked with countless users on this issue, and in almost every case, there’s a logical explanation that doesn’t involve Instagram making autonomous decisions.
Remember, you’re always in control of who you follow – Instagram is designed to suggest and recommend, but not to make these decisions for you. If you’re concerned about unexpected follows, take a few minutes to audit your account settings and review your following list. It’s a simple step that can give you peace of mind and maintain the integrity of your Instagram experience.
