Social media is the new world we live in, connecting us with friends, family, and the world at large. Among these platforms, Instagram stands out as a go-to source for sharing photos and videos. However, imagine finding out that your Instagram account automatically likes pictures and videos without your consent. Frustrating, isn’t it?
Many Instagram users have encountered this unsettling situation of their account engaging with content they never intended to interact with. Whether it’s a friend’s post, a celebrity’s picture, or even a random stranger’s video, these automatic likes can cause concern.
So, today we decided to help you with that. We will touch upon the reasons behind Instagram’s automatic liking behavior and provide practical solutions to stop it. By understanding the underlying causes and implementing the right troubleshooting method, you can regain control over your Instagram account and ensure that your likes are genuine and intentional.
Quick Answer: Why does Instagram like Photos and Videos Automatically?
This can be quite an issue, leaving you wondering why on earth it’s happening. Filtering out the vague, irrelevant reasons, we were able to find the three major causes resulting in this behavior. Let’s get into it one by one.
Third-party applications
Sometimes, when you grant access to certain third-party applications or services, they might have access to your posts, videos, and stories. These sneaky apps can unknowingly manipulate your Instagram activity, resulting in those unexpected likes.
That’s why you should always be careful of third-party services that demand your login details. There are a bunch of tools that can give you shiny features to surpass someone’s privacy while they steal your data without your permission.
Technical issues
Social media can come with major drawbacks and glitches now and then, causing it to mistakenly like photos and videos without your involvement. However, this is an extreme case, so the backed team will address the issue without even your intimation.
Someone might have hacked your account
Now, this one’s a bit unsettling. If your account falls into the wrong hands, an
unauthorized individuals may gain access and start liking content without your knowledge.
It’s a reminder to secure your Instagram account with a robust password and enable two-factor authentication.
Those are the three possible reasons that might be causing you this liking spree issue on Instagram. Now, here are a few solutions you might want to give a shot.
How to fix automatically liked Photos and Videos on Instagram?
Now that you know the reasons, here are relevant solutions to get yourself out of the situation.
Cut ties with third-party application
If you think your third-party tools are causing you this trouble, follow these step-by-step instructions to remove third-party access to your Instagram account.
Step 1: Open the Instagram application on your device.
Step 2: Locate the hamburger icon (three horizontal lines) typically found in the top right corner of the screen. Tap on it to access the menu.
Step 3: In the menu, scroll down and look for the Settings and Privacy option. Tap on it to proceed.
Step 4. Within the Settings and Privacy section, you will find various options. Look for the Your Apps and Media option to continue.
Step 5: In the Your Apps and Media section, you can see the Website Permissions option listed. Tap on it to manage the access granted to third-party apps and websites.
Step 6: Under Website Permissions, you will find a list of apps and websites that have been granted access to your Instagram account. Review this list carefully.
Step 7: To revoke access to a specific app or website, tap on its name and select the option Remove Access. This will immediately remove their access to your Instagram account.
Step 8: Additionally, you can review and manage the status of apps and websites by navigating between the Active, Expired, and Removed tabs within the Apps and Websites section.
With these steps implemented, you can easily remove third-party access from your Instagram account and ensure your privacy and security.
Reach out to Instagram support
If you believe the problem is caused by a technical issue, you can reach out to Instagram support. If this is your first time connecting with a support team, this section will guide you through the process.
Step 1: Open the Instagram application on your mobile or web browser.
Step 2: Once you’re on the home screen, tap on your profile icon located at the bottom right corner.
Step 3: On your profile page, look for the three horizontal lines at the top right corner of the screen and tap on them. This will open the menu options.
Step 4: Scroll down the menu options and select the Settings and Privacy option placed at the bottom of the list.
Step 5: In the Settings menu, browse until you find the Help section and tap on it.
Step 6: Within the Help tab, select Help Center to access Instagram’s support resources.
Step 7: In the Help Center, you’ll find a search bar in which you can type in your query or concern. Type in a brief description of the issue you’re facing and tap on the search icon.
Step 8: Instagram will provide a list of relevant articles and topics related to your
query. Browse the results to find the most suitable one to address your concern.
Step 9: If you can’t find a solution in the Help Center, return to the help tab using the back button.
Step 10: Now, there you’ll find a report a problem option; tap on it. Now, select the appropriate category that best matches your issue, such as Something Isn’t Working or General Feedback, and follow the prompts to get more details.
Step 11: Depending on the nature of your concern, you may be directed to fill out a form, provide additional information, or choose from predefined options to specify your problem. Follow the instructions accordingly.
Step 12: Once you’ve submitted your request or report, Instagram will review your query and respond to you via email or within the app.
Be sure to check your inbox, including spam or junk folders, for any updates from Instagram’s support team.
Remember to provide clear and concise information to increase the chances of receiving a timely response.
How to secure your Instagram account?
If you think someone else than you has access to your Instagram account, follow the steps mentioned in the next three sections. This helps you to safeguard your account from hackers.
How to check login history on Instagram?
Suppose you suspect a strange login to your Instagram account is causing these unapproved likes issues; you might want to check your account activity. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to check your account activity on Instagram.
Step 1: Launch the Instagram app on your Android or iOS device and log in to your account.
Step 2: Tap on your profile photo located at the bottom-right corner of the screen.
Step 3: Now, click the menu icon (three horizontal lines) at the top-right corner of your profile page.
Step 4: Scroll down the menu options and select Settings and Privacy at the bottom.
Step 5: Within the Settings menu, scroll down to the How you use Instagram section.
Step 6: There, you’ll find the account history option; tap on it to know more about recent activities, changes and other account-related details.
This helps you stay informed about the activities related to your account and ensure its security. Remember to keep your login credentials secure and report any suspicious or unauthorized activities to Instagram immediately.
How to change my password on Instagram?
If you think someone else has accessed your account recently, your first step is to change your account password. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to change your password on Instagram.
Step 1: Open Instagram on your device and log in to your account.
Step 2: Once you’re logged in, tap on your profile picture icon, usually located at the bottom right corner of the page.
Step 3: This will redirect you to the profile page. Look for the three horizontal lines icon at the top right corner of the screen and tap on it.
Step 4: In the menu that appears, scroll down until you find the Settings and Privacy option. Tap on it to proceed.
Step 5: Within the Settings menu, look for the Account Center option and tap on it.
Step 6: There, you need to choose the password and security option to proceed further.
Step 7: Under the current tab, you should find the option to Change Password. Tap on it to continue.
Now, you can proceed to enter your current password and then your new desired password. Ensure to choose a strong, unique password that you haven’t used before.
Step 8: After entering your new password, tap on the Save or Confirm button to complete the process.
Make sure to remember your new password and keep it secure to protect your account.
How to enable two-factor authentication on Instagram?
To prevent your account from hackers and spammers, Instagram has a useful feature called Two-factor authentication. This allows you to stay informed about your account login activities. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to enable two-factor authentication on Instagram
Step 1: Open the Instagram application on your mobile device and log in to your respective account.
Step 2: Tap on your profile picture located at the bottom right corner of the screen to go to your profile.
Step 3: Once you’re on your profile page, tap on the three horizontal lines found at the top right corner of the screen to open the menu.
Step 4: Scroll down and tap on the Settings and Privacy option at the end of the menu.
Step 5: Within the Settings menu, look for the Account Center option and tap on it.
Step 6: From there, you need to choose the password and security option to proceed further.
Step 7: Now tap on the two-factor authentication option. Then you need to choose a medium like text and email to receive your login code.
Step 8: You’ll see a toggle switch next to Require Security Code. Toggle it on to enable two-factor authentication.
Once chosen, you’ll be asked to verify your details, and your two-factor authentication will be enabled immediately. With this feature on, you can protect your Instagram profile and have peace of mind knowing that your account is better protected.
Frequently Asked Question
1. How to reset the Instagram password without 2-factor authentication?
To reset your Instagram password without 2-factor authentication, head to the login page, tap Forgot password? option and follow the provided instructions to reset your password using your email ID or phone number associated with your account.
2. Why is my 2-factor authentication not working on Instagram?
If your 2-factor authentication is not working on Instagram, make sure you have the correct phone number or email linked to your account. Double-check the time settings on your device, ensure you have a strong internet connection, and retry refreshing the app or logging in from a different device.
3. How do I reset my Instagram password with the recovery code?
To reset your Instagram password with a recovery code, go to the login page, tap Forgot password? and choose the option to reset with your recovery code. Type the code sent to your verified email address or phone number and follow the instructions to create a new password. Remember to keep your recovery codes safe for future use!
In the end
Dealing with Instagram’s automatic likes can be frustrating, but we hope this blog has provided you with valuable insights and solutions to put an end to this unwanted issue.
If you have any further questions or need assistance with other social media-related issues, leave us a line below. We are here to help you navigate through the ever-evolving world of social media. In the meantime, you can also explore various other troubleshooting blogs on our insights page.
