The rise of social platforms has not only made people highly reliant on online interaction but has also established them as crucial arenas for
social marketing, particularly Instagram.
According to the latest "DIGITAL 2024: Global Overview Report" by DataReportal, Instagram's ad reach in Hong Kong is approximately 3.7 million people, an increase of 400,000 (12.1%) compared to last year.
This clearly indicates that for brand marketing, managing an Instagram presence is an essential
online promotion channel. However, when faced with a sudden Instagram action block, even the most experienced users can feel at a loss. How should you handle an IG action block? Below, Arachne Group Limited will delve into the reasons behind
Instagram action blocks and strategies to address them. Read on if you're interested!
Social Marketing Q&A: What is an IG Action Block? How Long Does It Last?

An Instagram action block is indeed a frustrating issue. It temporarily restricts a user's ability to use the platform normally, including accessing the account, posting content, and interacting with other users. Generally, an action block is triggered by violating parts of Instagram's Terms of Service, which include, but are not limited to:
— Posting inappropriate content (e.g., pornography, violence, hate speech).
— Sharing content that infringes copyright.
— Using bots or other automation tools to boost engagement.
— Buying or selling Instagram accounts or followers.
— Using Instagram in a deceptive or misleading manner.
— ...
When an account is blocked, the user will receive a notification stating "Your account has been disabled." Some accounts may also see a specified duration for the block. During this period, users cannot access normal Instagram functions until the action block is automatically lifted.
Social Marketing Q&A: How Long Until an IG Action Block is Lifted?

Typically, an IG action block is automatically lifted after 24 hours. However, if the block notification specifies an "Account Blocked Until" date, you must wait until that date for the block to be removed.
As explained by Arachne Group Limited, the duration of an action block primarily depends on the severity of the violation and whether the user has a history of previous infringements. For minor violations, the block usually lasts 24 hours. For more serious offenses, it can extend to several days or weeks. Furthermore, if the user has a history of violations, the block duration may be longer.
If you believe your account was blocked mistakenly without any violation, you can appeal to Instagram. The appeal should clearly and concisely state your case and include any supporting evidence (the more comprehensive, the better). Instagram typically responds to appeals within 24 hours.
Here are the steps to appeal an IG action block:
● Open the Instagram app and tap your profile picture.
● Tap the menu icon (≡), then select Settings.
● Navigate to Help > Report a Problem > Something Else > Couldn't log in.
● Select the relevant appeal category (e.g., related to a block), tap "Fill out Appeal Form", and complete all required fields.
● After verifying the information is correct, click "Submit Appeal".
Social Marketing Q&A: How to Handle an IG Action Block?

Upon receiving the block notification, the first step is to stay calm. Avoid repeatedly attempting to log in, as this might be misinterpreted by Instagram's systems as bot activity, potentially extending the block duration. Additionally, while waiting for the block to be lifted, you can adopt the following
social marketing strategies to reduce the risk of future blocks:
Review Instagram's Policies: Carefully read Instagram's Terms of Service and Community Guidelines to understand the specific rules you may have violated. This helps clarify necessary adjustments to your IG management strategy and prevents similar issues.
Submit an Appeal (If Applicable): If you believe the block was a mistake, promptly submit an appeal to Instagram. The appeal should be clear, concise, and include any supporting evidence. While the success rate isn't guaranteed, proactive effort is better than inaction.
Contact IG Support (If Prolonged): If the account remains blocked for over 48 hours without a specified end date, you can try contacting Instagram Support for consultation. Be aware that their support team handles a high volume of requests, so responses may take time.
Social Marketing Q&A: How to Maintain Brand Activity During an IG Block?

Waiting for Instagram's final decision can be frustrating, but it doesn't mean you should remain inactive. During an IG block, it's advisable to use the following social marketing tactics to maintain brand visibility:
Cross-Platform Marketing: Utilize other social media platforms (e.g., Facebook, X/Twitter, TikTok) to continue publishing content and engaging with your audience. This helps maintain brand exposure and can attract potential followers to your Instagram account once it's restored.
Content Planning and Teasers: Use this time to plan future content for Instagram. Tease this upcoming content on other platforms to build anticipation and curiosity among your followers, preparing for a strong return post-block.
Customer Relationship Maintenance: Stay connected with loyal followers via email, other social platforms, etc. Inform them that your Instagram account is temporarily undergoing review and thank them for their support and patience. This strengthens fan loyalty and can reduce potential follower loss due to the block.
Strategy Reflection and Improvement: Use this period to critically assess your Instagram marketing strategy. Identify potential weaknesses and develop improvement plans, such as optimizing content quality, adjusting posting schedules, or enhancing interaction strategies.
In summary, while an Instagram action block is challenging, it is not insurmountable. By employing strategic social marketing efforts, you can maintain brand activity during the block, enabling a swift recovery and even surpassing previous performance levels once restored. Remember, social media marketing is a long-term game—patience, strategy, and compliance are key to success.