Why Do Random People Follow Me on Instagram?

The rapid growth of social media platforms is truly impressive, and the future looks promising. Perhaps you’re reconnecting with long-lost acquaintances like Aunty Suzy on Instagram, whom you haven’t seen in decades since her move upcountry. Or maybe you’re engrossed in the exciting gossip with old schoolmates from six years back. Amidst all this, you can’t help but wonder why seemingly random people are following you on Instagram.

It may seem peculiar that bot activities can have an impact on one of the largest social platforms. These bots follow and unfollow users on Instagram, hoping to garner follow-backs. If you keep an eye on these ‘random followers’ for a day or two, you’ll likely find that many of them have already unfollowed you.

In this article, we’ll delve into the reasons behind these unaccounted followers on your Instagram account. We’ll explore the mentioned reasons and more, which might come as a surprise. Keep reading to uncover the truth behind these mysterious followers.

Computer Programs or Bot Activities

I understand that this information might be surprising, but the truth is that spambots pose a significant challenge for Instagram. This problem is not new, and if you were to create a new account now, you’d probably receive likes, views, and follows from unfamiliar people.

Although Instagram has taken measures to block automation tools like auto-like bots and follow/unfollow tools, some of them still manage to operate within the platform. Instagram remains vigilant in detecting and blocking these bots to prevent them from engaging in fake interactions with users.

If you run a personal or business account and collaborate with influencers or brands that mention or tag you, it’s natural to gain new followers through these genuine interactions. However, it’s essential to be cautious and watch out for potential spambot activities to maintain the authenticity of your follower base.

Suggestions From Instagram

Instagram may seem straightforward at first glance, but it’s actually a more intricate platform with mysterious algorithms that require some research to comprehend fully. The app provides various account suggestions based on your activities, taking into account factors like your searches, comments, likes, and location.

For example, if you’ve been closely following the tea and drama in the Kardashians’ households, Instagram might recommend similar accounts for you to follow. Similarly, if you’ve been searching for tour companies to plan your Miami trip, your account might be suggested to such pages, and they might even follow you back. The platform’s algorithm is constantly analyzing user behavior to tailor its recommendations and enhance the user experience.

The Hashtag Shenanigans

Not too long ago, hashtags became a trend, and you’d spot people wearing t-shirts adorned with branded hashtags, sipping from customized mugs, or displaying car stickers with catchy tags. Instagram took this practice to new heights, as using popular hashtags on your photos could attract users who search for or follow those tags.

In some instances, your posts might go viral due to extensive sharing, and curious users may track down the original poster to follow their account. When your Instagram photos, reels, or IGTVs go viral, it means numerous users are promoting and sharing your content, leading to increased visibility and potential new followers.

What Will Replace Instagram

Instagram Page Admins and Account Managers on the Hunt for Followers

In the present Instagram landscape, numbers hold significant importance for your page and content, although it’s essential to be cautious as some may resort to dishonest tactics. Brands, businesses, and companies aim to boost their numbers in pursuit of higher engagement and increased sales.

On the platform, some users manage similar pages and may follow you with the expectation of gaining followers in return. However, they might outmaneuver you by unfollowing shortly after you follow them back. For example, if you follow Dave Ramsey today, other financial pages might follow you, assuming you have an interest in similar content.

Account Merging With Other Social Media Platforms

I understand that we all have busy lives and don’t have the time to post separately on each social media platform. The solution? Linking your Instagram to Facebook and Twitter, which serves as a time-saving shortcut.

When you link these platforms, your friends and followers on Facebook and Twitter will receive notifications whenever you share content on Instagram. If they find your Instagram content appealing, they may choose to follow you on Facebook or Twitter as well.

Blind Searches

Following random accounts on Instagram can be like going on a blind date. You might not know if you’ll end up following someone you already know! Some users engage in blind following by typing a username and following all accounts under it. In such cases, you could become a victim of these random search scenarios.

If you decide to reach out to these accounts to clarify their identity, the owner might admit to their action. On the other hand, if they feel uncomfortable or bothered by your inquiry, they might choose to ignore or block you.

Stalkers With Pseudo Accounts

We are all aware of how some individuals, known as keyboard warriors, create numerous fake accounts to secretly monitor and spy on unsuspecting victims, and unfortunately, you could become one of their targets. It might be an ex-partner who has heard about your success and happiness and wants to verify it firsthand.

Perhaps a potential suitor sees promise in you as a life partner and decides to test the waters by hiding their true identity. Alternatively, you could unknowingly be socializing with a married individual, and their partner might resort to tracking your activities on Instagram. It’s essential to stay vigilant and be cautious of such situations in the digital world.

Your Profile is Generally Impressive

Whether it’s spambots or genuine users, your Instagram account is likely to attract attention. Your profile picture, bio, and posts may leave a positive impression on some individuals, leading them to follow you and engage with your content. This is a common occurrence for many users, and we are here to assist and support those who experience such situations.

Conclusion

Receiving follow requests from random people can be quite baffling, but now that you are aware of spambots, pseudonymous stalkers, and random searchers, you can take control of the situation.

To counter these issues, consider switching to a private account (similar to building a fence around your account) so you can manually approve each follow request. Additionally, you have the power to block random followers – after all, it’s your account, and you get to decide how to manage it!