Whether a notification is sent to another user when a screenshot of their content is captured on Instagram depends on the specific type of content. A notification is triggered when a screenshot or screen recording is taken of a disappearing photo or video sent in a direct message. Standard posts, stories, and reels do not generate a notification for the content creator if a screenshot is taken.
The differentiated notification system aims to provide users with greater control over ephemeral content shared privately, while acknowledging the more public nature of content posted to feeds and stories. This approach balances user privacy concerns with the utility of content sharing and consumption. Initially, Instagram experimented with notifying users of screenshots taken of stories but discontinued the feature due to user feedback.