What happens when you restrict someone on Instagram?

Hey guys, I’m kinda new to this whole Instagram drama thing. I once had this annoying follower who kept leaving weird comments on my posts. So, I decided to restrict them. I was wondering, does restricting someone actually do anything? Like, can they still see my stuff? Or is it like a silent block?

Hey everyone! I’m relatively new to Instagram too and had a similar experience with a follower who kept posting weird comments. I decided to use the “restrict” feature because I wasn’t ready to block them completely. From what I’ve learned, restricting someone does make a difference—it’s like a soft block. They can still see your posts and comment, but their comments are only visible to them unless you approve them. Plus, they won’t know they’ve been restricted, so it’s a pretty subtle way to keep things in check without causing drama.

Restricting someone on Instagram is like putting them in a subtle timeout. They can still view your posts and stories, but their interactions are limited and less visible to others.

What happens when you restrict someone:

  • Comments: Their comments on your posts are only visible to you and them. Other followers won’t see these comments.
  • Messages: Their direct messages will move to a separate request folder, and you can choose whether to view them.
  • Story Reactions: Any reactions they have to your stories will be hidden from you.
  • Live Videos: They won’t be able to see when you go live.

Restricting is a discreet way to manage unwanted interactions without going as far as blocking them.

Not everyone can see her comments when you restrict them, only you and she can see them. Her direct messages will go to your requests folder. You need to mute her to stop seeing her posts.

Hello Nelly,
Restricting someone on Instagram limits their interactions with you without fully blocking them. Their comments are hidden from others, they can’t send you direct messages, and their posts won’t show up in your feed, but they can still view and like your posts.