How to get rid of ads on Instagram

Instagram, owned by Facebook, leverages user data to display relevant ads in users’ feeds and stories. With its vast and varied user base, IG offers a unique platform for targeted advertising. Advertisers leverage sophisticated algorithms to display personalized ads based on user behavior, preferences, and demographics. While this targeted approach increases ad effectiveness, it often disrupts the user experience, leading to a growing demand for ad-free or ad-reduced environments. While this approach helps businesses reach their ideal audience, it can lead to an overwhelming amount of ads for users.This guide will explore different methods to remove ads on Instagram.

How to disable targeted advertising 

The approach we will describe below may not completely eliminate all ads, it can help declutter your Instagram environment and provide a more tailored experience focused on the content most relevant to you.

Step-by-step instructions

1. Open Instagram;
2. Open the menu;
3. Select “Settings”;
4. Tap “Ads”;
5. Under “Ad Preferences,” tap “Data about your activity from partner”;
6. Toggle off “Use data from partners”;
7. Return to the “Ads” menu and tap “Ad topics”;
8. Review the list of topics and select the ones you want to see less of by tapping “See Less”.

How to remove ads on Instagram

While completely removing ads from Instagram is not possible without violating the app’s terms of service, there are several methods to minimize their appearance on both iPhone and Android devices.

On iPhone

1. Open the Instagram app;
2. Open the menu;
3. Select “Settings”;
4. Tap “About”;
5. Tap “Terms of use”;
6. Scroll down to the “Third-party services” section and tap “Learn more”;
7. Follow the instructions to opt out of interest-based ads.

Alternatively, you can also use content blockers on your iPhone to minimize ads. Here’s how:

1. Install a content blocker app from the App Store (e.g., 1Blocker, AdGuard);
2. Open the Settings app on your iPhone;
3. Navigate to “Safari” by scrolling down;
4. Find “Content blockers” under the “General” section and tap it;
5. Activate the content blocker app you installed.

Please note that content blockers may not work within the Instagram app itself, but they can help reduce ads when accessing Instagram through Safari.

On Android

1. Launch the app;
2. Access the menu;
3. Choose “Settings”;
4. Scroll down and select “About”;
5. Tap on “Terms of Use”;
6. Scroll to the “Third-party services” section and tap “Learn more”;
7. Follow the provided steps to opt out of interest-based ads.

For Android users, you can also utilize DNS-based ad-blocking to minimize ads across all apps, including Instagram. Here’s how:

1. Open the Settings app on your Android device;
2. Tap “Wi-Fi & Internet”;
3. Tap “Private DNS”;
4. Select “Private DNS provider hostname”;
5. Enter “dns.adguard.com” and tap “Save”.

By using a DNS-based ad-blocker like AdGuard, you can significantly reduce the number of ads you see on your Android device, not just on Instagram but across all apps.

Comparison of advertising minimization methods

Table 1. Methods to minimize Ads on Instagram

Table 2. Advantages and disadvantages of Ad minimization methods

Implementing VPN and Proxy Services to reduce Ads

Advanced ad minimization techniques for Instagram encompass the utilization of Virtual Private Network (VPN) or proxy server technologies to obfuscate online activities and impede advertisers’ capability to track user behavior and deliver personalized advertisements. VPNs employ robust encryption algorithms, such as AES-256, to encrypt the user’s internet connection and route traffic through geographically dispersed servers, enhancing privacy and potentially simulating access from jurisdictions with more stringent data protection regulations, resulting in a reduced prevalence of targeted ads.

Proxy servers, acting as intermediaries between the user’s device and the internet, mask the IP address and redirect traffic through an alternative network path, circumventing ad tracking mechanisms that rely on cookies, browser fingerprinting, and other user identification techniques. By obscuring the user’s digital footprint and manipulating HTTP headers, these technologies complicate the data collection process that forms the foundation of targeted advertising algorithms, ultimately mitigating the frequency of personalized ads.

However, it is imperative to exercise prudence when selecting VPN or proxy service providers, as some may engage in logging user activity or have vulnerabilities that compromise privacy. Reputable services implement strict no-logging policies, employ secure protocols like OpenVPN or WireGuard, and undergo regular security audits to maintain the integrity of their infrastructure. Additionally, while these methods can effectively minimize ads, they may also impact the overall Instagram experience, as certain features or content may be limited or inaccessible due to geographic restrictions, IP blocking, or server limitations imposed by Instagram’s security measures.

Users should meticulously assess the trade-offs between ad reduction and potential drawbacks before incorporating these advanced methods into their Instagram ad minimization strategy. Thorough research into VPN and proxy server providers, their privacy policies, and their technical specifications is essential to ensure the selection of a trustworthy and reliable service. Regular monitoring of VPN or proxy server performance, as well as staying informed about emerging security threats and vulnerabilities, is crucial for maintaining the effectiveness and safety of these ad minimization techniques.

Conclusion 

Ad-blocking technologies are in a constant battle with advertising networks, which continually find new ways to bypass these blocks. Therefore, combining technical ad-blocking methods with mindful habits, like interacting with enjoyable content and using Instagram’s ad reporting tools, can be the most effective strategy.

However, users should be cautious when considering third-party ad-blocking solutions, as some might introduce security risks or compromise privacy. It’s crucial to rely on reputable sources and thoroughly research any app or service before giving it access to personal data.

Ultimately, achieving a more enjoyable Instagram experience involves balancing the platform’s advertising model with the desire for a clutter-free, content-focused environment. By using a mix of technical strategies and mindful habits, users can take greater control of their Instagram ad experience, ensuring the platform remains a place for meaningful connections and engaging content.

By staying updated on the latest ad-blocking technologies and platform policies, users can maintain a more satisfying Instagram experience while navigating the modern digital advertising landscape.