Upon deactivation of an Instagram account, the user’s profile and content become inaccessible to other users. Previous followers will no longer find the account in their following list, and searches for the username will yield no results. Any direct messages sent to or received from the account will remain in other users’ inboxes but will display the profile picture as a default Instagram icon and the username as “Instagram User.”
Account deactivation provides users with a temporary method of removing their presence from the platform without permanently deleting their data. This can be beneficial for those seeking a break from social media or addressing privacy concerns. This contrasts with permanent deletion, where all content and account information are irretrievable. The choice between deactivation and deletion allows for flexibility in managing one’s online identity.