The “person plus” icon on Instagram represents a feature that enables individuals to initiate a follow request to a private account. It signifies the action of seeking permission to view and interact with content shared exclusively with approved followers. Upon encountering this icon, a user can tap it to send a request to the account owner, who then has the option to accept or decline the request.
This functionality plays a crucial role in user privacy and content control. It allows individuals to maintain a level of exclusivity over their posts and stories, ensuring that only those they approve can access their personal content. Historically, this feature has evolved alongside Instagram’s commitment to providing users with greater control over their online presence and interactions, responding to increasing concerns about privacy and data security.