If Instagram is stopping you from following people, it can be frustrating. This issue happens for different reasons, including account restrictions, app glitches, or security concerns. Here’s why it happens and how you can fix it.

You’ve Reached the Follow Limit

Instagram has a limit of 7,500 accounts per user. If you’ve reached this limit, you cannot follow more people unless you unfollow some accounts.

Fix:
Go to your Following list and unfollow inactive accounts to make space for new ones.

You’re Following Too Many People Too Fast

Instagram may block you from following more users if you follow too many accounts in a short time. This is to prevent spam behavior.

Fix:
Wait a few hours or up to 24 hours before trying again.
Follow accounts at a slower pace to avoid being flagged.

Temporary Action Block by Instagram

If Instagram detects unusual activity, it may block your account from following others temporarily. This can happen if:
You follow too many people too quickly.
You’ve been reported for spam or suspicious activity.
You use third-party apps to gain followers.

Fix:
Stop all actions for 24–48 hours and try again.
Avoid using third-party follower apps.
If you believe it’s a mistake, go to Settings > Help > Report a Problem and contact Instagram.

Your Instagram App Has a Glitch

Sometimes, the Instagram app has bugs that prevent you from following people.

Fix:
Update Instagram to the latest version.
Log out and log back in.
Uninstall and reinstall the Instagram app.

Instagram Server Issues

If Instagram is down, you may have trouble following accounts.

Fix:
Check Instagram’s status on Downdetector.
Wait for Instagram to fix the issue.

Your Account is Restricted or Shadowbanned

If you’ve been violating Instagram’s guidelines, your account may be restricted or shadowbanned.

Fix:
Review Instagram’s Community Guidelines.
Stop any actions that look spammy.
If your account is restricted, you can appeal in Settings > Help > Report a Problem.