Did you know that using the incorrect Instagram banned hashtags can cause your account to be shadowbanned or, worse, significantly reduce the visibility of your posts? Instagram’s algorithm, which has over 1 billion active users, is made to identify and punish accounts that abuse specific hashtags.
Choosing the appropriate hashtags is essential if you want your content to be found on Instagram. But with so many hashtags at your disposal, it can be difficult to know which ones to stay away from. This post will discuss the dangers of using prohibited or pointless hashtags and give you a list of 25 hashtags to avoid.
By the time you finish reading this post, you will know how to keep your account visible and intact while making sure the right people see your content.
Understanding Instagram’s Hashtag Restrictions
Instagram hashtag moderation is a complex process that incorporates community guidelines and algorithms. All users will experience a respectful and safe environment thanks to this system’s design.
How Instagram Moderates Content
Instagram employs both human moderators and automated systems to examine content and uphold its community standards. This involves keeping an eye out for offensive or dangerous content on hashtags.
Why Certain Hashtags Get Restricted
Hashtags that don’t follow Instagram’s rules—like those pertaining to restricted or inappropriate hashtags—are either banned or restricted. Users must be aware of these rules in order to prevent inadvertently using banned hashtags.
Hashtags Not to Use on Instagram: The Banned List
Instagram prohibits certain hashtags that go against its community standards in order to preserve a polite and safe atmosphere. Maintaining a healthy and active audience on the platform requires an understanding of these banned hashtags.
Adult Content and Explicit Hashtags
Hashtags that contain explicit or adult content are strictly forbidden on Instagram. Account restrictions or even permanent bans may result from using such hashtags.
- #nude
- #sexy
- #adult
- #sexygirl
Because they frequently refer to explicit or adult content that violates Instagram’s community guidelines, these hashtags are regarded as off-limits.
Self-Harm and Dangerous Behavior Hashtags
Instagram also prohibits hashtags that glorify or encourage self-harm or risky behavior. This includes information that might promote risky behavior or offer guidance on how to partake in it.
- 5. #thinspo
- 6. #selfharm
- 7. #cutting
There are serious repercussions for using these hashtags, such as account suspension and, in certain situations, reporting to the police.
Drug-Related Hashtags
Hashtags pertaining to drug use, sales, or promotion are prohibited on Instagram. Content that highlights or exalts drug-related activities falls under this category.
- 8. #weed
- 9. #edibles
- 10. #marijuana
In addition to being against Instagram’s policy of encouraging a safe community, using hashtags related to drugs may result in account penalties.
Violence and Weapons Hashtags
Instagram does not allow hashtags that depict weapons or encourage violence. Content that promotes violence or the use of weapons falls under this category.
- 11. #killingit
- 12. #gun
- 13. #knife
Using these hashtags in content is regarded as against Instagram’s community standards and may result in account limitations.
Spam-Flagged Hashtags
Additionally, Instagram blocks and flags spam hashtags, such as those that are used to fictitiously increase engagement or follower counts.
- 14. #like4like
- 15. #follow4follow
- 16. #likeforlike
Steer clear of these spam-flagged hashtags if you want to keep your Instagram following active and real.
Ineffective and Useless Hashtags That Hurt Your Reach
Certain hashtags can actually hurt your Instagram reach, so they’re not all made equal. Because of their popularity or relevance, some hashtags may seem appealing, but when it comes to engaging your target audience, they may actually be more detrimental than beneficial.
Overly Generic Hashtags
Your content may be lost in a sea of other posts if you use hashtags that are too general. These hashtags don’t precisely target your audience and are frequently too general.
17. #love
Your content is likely to be obscured by the millions of posts that have been tagged with #love. Your visibility may suffer if you use a hashtag that is too general.
18. #instagood
instagood. For most brands,t isn’t targeted enough to draw in the right audience, even though it may i receive some engagement.
19. #photooftheday
Although this hashtag is frequently used to highlight excellent photographs, it is too general to generate significant interaction for particular niches.
Temporarily Restricted Hashtags
Temporary restrictions on certain hashtags are frequently imposed because of timely or seasonal events. Your reach may suffer if you use these during their limited times.
20. #costumes (during Halloween)
Because there is so much related content during Halloween, #costumes may be limited. This hashtag may become less visible if used during its busiest time of year.
21. #valentinesday (during February)
Valentine’s Day in February is probably going to be limited as well. To avoid having your content shadowbanned, don’t use it during this time.
Irrelevant Engagement Bait Hashtags
Though they may promise more interaction, engagement bait hashtags frequently draw spam or irrelevant engagement.
22. #explorepage
There is no assurance that your content will appear on the explore page just because you use #explorepage. It can discourage genuine interaction and is frequently viewed as spam.
23. #trending
Adding the hashtag #trending to your content does not guarantee that it will become popular. This hashtag is overused and doesn’t encourage deep interaction.
24. #viral
Using #viral to wish for virality doesn’t guarantee it. This hashtag is frequently linked to content that makes an excessive effort to become viral.
25. #challenge
Although challenges can be interesting, the hashtag #challenge may be too general and draw spam or irrelevant content.
You can improve your Instagram strategy to draw in a more interested and relevant audience by staying away from these pointless and ineffectual hashtags. Making the most of your online presence requires an understanding of the subtleties of Instagram’s hashtag ecosystem.
Conclusion: Creating an Effective Instagram Hashtag Strategy
It’s time to improve your hashtag strategy now that you know which hashtags are prohibited on Instagram and which ones you should avoid using. You can greatly enhance your Instagram presence and expand your audience by staying away from prohibited and pointless hashtags.
Examine your current list of hashtags and eliminate any that are excessively generic, irrelevant, or might have been flagged as spam. Make sure your hashtags are engaging, relevant, and specific to your content and target audience.
In addition to avoiding possible Instagram penalties, doing this will raise your profile’s visibility and engagement. Connecting with your target audience and optimizing your Instagram potential require a well-thought-out hashtag strategy.
FAQ
What happens if I use a banned hashtag on Instagram?
Using a banned hashtag can result in your post being hidden or your account being shadowbanned, reducing your visibility and reach on the platform.
How do I know if a hashtag is banned or restricted on Instagram?
You can check if a hashtag is banned by searching for it on Instagram. If it’s banned, you’ll see a message indicating that the hashtag is not allowed. You can also check Instagram’s community guidelines to understand what types of content are restricted.
Can I still use hashtags that are not directly related to my content?
While it’s technically possible, using irrelevant hashtags can be considered spammy and may not be effective in attracting the right audience. It’s best to use hashtags that are relevant to your content to engage with your target audience.
Are there any consequences for using prohibited or off-limits hashtags on Instagram?
Yes, using prohibited or off-limits hashtags can lead to your content being flagged, your post being hidden, or even your account being suspended or terminated.
How can I avoid using forbidden or restricted hashtags on Instagram?
To avoid using forbidden or restricted hashtags, research your hashtags before using them, and check Instagram’s community guidelines regularly to stay up-to-date on what’s allowed and what’s not.
Can I appeal if my post or account is shadowbanned due to using a banned hashtag?
Yes, you can appeal Instagram’s decision by reporting the issue through their help center. However, it’s essential to review and adjust your hashtag strategy to comply with Instagram’s guidelines.
What are some examples of off-limits or prohibited hashtags on Instagram?
Examples include hashtags related to adult content, self-harm, drug-related activities, violence, and spam-flagged hashtags, such as #nude, #selfharm, #weed, #killingit, and #like4like.
How often does Instagram update its list of banned or restricted hashtags?
Instagram regularly updates its community guidelines and list of banned or restricted hashtags. It’s crucial to stay informed about these changes to maintain a compliant and effective hashtag strategy.