Instagram automation is a powerful tool for businesses to scale their Instagram presence and maintain consistency with posts. But with Instagram’s advanced algorithms that constantly monitor user behavior, your well-meaning automated content can trigger restrictions and risk getting flagged as spam if not handled carefully.
To help prevent this, we will go through how Instagram automation spam-detection works.
Understanding Instagram’s spam detection rules
Instagram relies on advanced algorithms to identify suspicious behavior to maintain safe user experiences. So, the first step to avoiding being flagged as spam is to have a clear understanding of what Instagram considers spammy:
-Unnatural or excessive activity: Rapid, repetitive actions such as mass liking, following/unfollowing, commenting, etc., in a short span can trigger Instagram spam filters. This also applies to automated DMs in larger frequencies.
-Using unauthorized third-party tools: Instagram actively monitors for bots or automation that are not approved by Meta and violate its Terms of Use.
-Repetitive messages: Sharing the same message to multiple users, especially via DMs will be viewed as bot-like behavior, and might result in being flagged as spam.
-Suspicious links: Including links that lead to low-trust websites or domains can get your content flagged as spam.
-Duplicate/low-quality content: Reposting identical captions or images across different accounts or repeatedly posting similar content can be viewed as automation abuse and spam.
By understanding these triggers, you can implement automation strategies that feel more human.
Safe Instagram automation strategies
Below, we have listed some of the best automation strategies that you need to follow to avoid being flagged as spam or being blocked.
Using trusted automation tools
Not all automation tools are created equal. Instagram’s guidelines strictly prohibit using unauthorized third-party tools that scrape data or perform actions outside of what is approved by the API usage guidelines. This can put your account at risk of being flagged or even permanently banned.
Go for Instagram-approved platforms that work well within Meta’s ecosystem. Tools like Interakt are designed specifically with safe Instagram automation in mind, offering features like lead capture, automated replies, and more while complying with Instagram’s policies.
Avoid over-automation
The easiest way to get flagged as spam is to push too many automated actions in a short period. Try to operate and automate within safe limits. For instance, do not exceed more than 20-30 genuine comments each day. When sharing direct messages, avoid sharing too many in bulk, and try to spread out the messages.
As a rule, you should automate gradually and mix organic activity in a way that mimics normal user behavior to avoid over-automation.
Maintaining engagement quality
Automation works best when it feels human, so personalize replies with user names and relevant details like context, specific product references, etc. Automation should be handling repetitive tasks such as initial responses and FAQs, but more complex or high-value conversations need to be handled manually to maintain quality engagement.
What to do if your account gets flagged
If you are getting the action block notification that we have given below, there are a few steps you can take to fix it.
– Go to your phone storage and clear the Instagram app’s cache. You can also delete and reinstall the app to completely clear the cache while updating to the latest version.
– Try staying off the Instagram app for a 24 to 72-hour period.
– Contact the Instagram help center by filling out a form on the official help page. Try to elaborate on your issue and convey how the issue can directly impact your business and revenue.
– Try to get in touch with human support by contacting Facebook or Instagram’s official Business support pages on Facebook. Note that you can only do this during working hours and on weekdays.
– Through a desktop, reconnect Instagram and Facebook together and see if the issue gets solved.
– Check if you are facing a device ban by logging into your Instagram account on your desktop or from another phone.
– Update your phone or device to the latest OS version, as this has solved action blocks for many users.
– Remove your link from the bio, log out, and then log in again to see if this fixes the account.
– Ensure that your Instagram account is functioning as a business or creator page and not as a personal page.
– To show Instagram that you are not a bot, verify your phone number and email address, link Instagram with Facebook, change your current Instagram password, and enable two-factor authentication.
– Stop using hashtags that are shadow-banned by Instagram.
– Do not do too many actions such as following/unfollowing, liking, commenting, posting, direct messaging, etc. at once.
To carry out automation in a way that is compliant with Instagram’s policies and community guidelines, here are a few things you can do:
– Avoid using unauthorized services and third-party tools and stick to official Instagram automation tools such as Interakt.
– Ensure that the automation tool accesses the Instagram API in a way that is permitted by Instagram API usage policies.
– Refrain from engaging in activities that can be perceived as spam.
– Integrate with a CRM system to create more streamlined workflows and relevant, engaging interactions.
– Prioritize authentic and engaging content that resonates with the audience.
– Follow the safe Instagram automation practices as listed above.
Conclusion
Automating Instagram is a sure-shot way of seamlessly enhancing your reach, engaging users, and establishing a solid brand image.
However, it is also important to find the right balance for your automation efforts and stick to authorized solutions to continue engaging users and boosting conversions without any hiccups.
Leverage safe, authorized, and impactful Instagram automation with Interakt.
