How to hide who you're stalking on Instagram

Because nobody needs to know about your 3AM Instagram searches.
 By 
Freia Lobo
 on 
Original image replaced with Mashable logo
Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

There's no shame in admitting that you stalk people on Instagram — we all do. But you don't always want anyone who grabs your phone to see who you've been stalking. So, here's the complete guide to hiding who you stalk on Instagram.

Clear search history

The "clear search history" button clears the dropdown of previous searches in your search bar. Note: this doesn't affect your search recommendations.

Original image replaced with Mashable logo
Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

To clear your search history,

  1. Go to your profile on Instagram

  2. Tap the gear on iPhone or three dotted lines on Android

  3. Scroll to the bottom, tap the "Clear Search History" button.

This will clear your search history temporarily, meaning that if you search for the same account or hashtag it will reappear in your search history.

The hide button

The hide button is a hidden gem. If you want to hide an account from you recommendations, even if you keep looking at their account, the hide button is your answer.

Original image replaced with Mashable logo
Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

If you want to make sure a specific search term or person never shows up in your search history

  1. Tap the search tab and then the search bar

  2. Tap and hold the search you want to hide

  3. Tap Hide

See fewer posts like this

Original image replaced with Mashable logo
Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

If you want to get less recommendations of a certain kind of post

  1. Tap the post

  2. Tap the three dot menu for more options

  3. Select "See fewer posts like this"

Now you're armed with all the tools you need to keep your Instagram snooping low-key. Enjoy!

Mashable Image
Freia Lobo

Freia Lobo wrote about Tech News for Mashable in NYC. You can follow her on twitter at @freialobo

Mashable Potato

Recommended For You
The top 10 most-followed Instagram accounts
Instagram logo

Instagram reportedly deletes Bellesa sex toy shop account for using the word 'clitoris'
illustration showing screenshot of email banning bellesa instagram account

Instagram is nostalgic for 2016 again (yes, really)
2016 glasses on a table


Instagram denies data breach: So what's up with those sketchy change password emails?
instagram logo against a black background

Trending on Mashable
NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for April 3, 2026
Connections game on a smartphone

Wordle today: Answer, hints for April 3, 2026
Wordle game on a smartphone

You can track Artemis II in real time as Orion flies to the moon
Victor Glover and Reid Wiseman piloting the Orion spacecraft


What's new to streaming this week? (April 3, 2026)
A composite of images from film and TV streaming this week.
The biggest stories of the day delivered to your inbox.
These newsletters may contain advertising, deals, or affiliate links. By clicking Subscribe, you confirm you are 16+ and agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Thanks for signing up. See you at your inbox!