The question of whether Instagram engages in automatic account following is a common concern among users. Generally, the platform’s official policy states that accounts are not automatically followed without user consent. However, certain third-party applications or services, often unauthorized, may offer functionalities that mimic automatic following as a means of increasing account visibility. These services frequently violate Instagram’s terms of service and can result in penalties for the account owner.
Understanding the difference between organic and artificially inflated follower counts is important for maintaining a genuine presence on the platform. A large number of followers acquired through automated means often translates to low engagement rates and decreased credibility. Historically, the temptation to quickly grow an audience through such shortcuts has been prevalent, but Instagram has actively worked to combat these practices, implementing algorithms to detect and remove inauthentic accounts.