What to Do When Instagram Removes Your Post

Getting a notification that Instagram has taken down your post can be unsettling. Whether you manage a brand account, create content professionally, or simply share personal moments, you might wonder: Was this justified or a mistake? Could it happen again? And what does this mean for your account’s future?

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to respond to Instagram’s removal notice, appeal if you believe your post should be reinstated, and take proactive steps to protect your account. Previously, we covered what to do if your entire account gets suspended — you can check that guide here.

Understanding why posts are removed, navigating the appeal process effectively, and adopting preventive habits can significantly help maintain your account’s integrity and prevent further issues.

Why Instagram Removes Posts

Instagram removes posts primarily for violations of its Community Guidelines and Terms of Use. Common reasons include:

• Copyright Infringement
  Using music, videos, or images you don’t have rights to can lead to takedowns.
  

• Nudity or Sexual Content
  Instagram’s rules around nudity are strict, even when content is artistic or educational.
  

• Hate Speech, Harassment, or Violence
  Posts targeting individuals, promoting hate, or threats are often removed swiftly.
  

• Misinformation
  Particularly regarding health or elections, flagged content may be taken down.
  

• Spam or Inauthentic Behavior
  Using fake engagement, misleading tags, or automated interactions can trigger removal.

Instagram’s Strike System and What It Means for You

Instagram uses a strike system to manage violations. When content is removed, a strike is counted against your account. Here’s how it works based on Meta’s Transparency Center:

• Each time Instagram removes content for violating policies, it counts as one strike.

• Accumulating multiple strikes in a short period can escalate consequences, such as:
  • Temporary restrictions on posting or other account features

  • Reduced content reach or visibility

  • Temporary or permanent account suspensions

• Strikes usually expire after a set period if no further violations occur, but repeated offenses put your account at higher risk.

Understanding this system helps you take violations seriously and respond appropriately to protect your account.

Step-by-Step: What to Do After a Post Is Removed on Instagram

Check Your Email and In-App Notifications
Instagram usually provides a reason for removal. Review these to understand which policy was violated.

Review Instagram’s Policies
Make sure you understand the specific rules cited:

• • • Instagram Community Guidelines

    • Instagram Terms of Use
      

Use the Appeal Option if You Believe the Removal Was Wrong

1. • Open the notification inside the app

   • Tap “Disagree with Decision”

   • Follow prompts to submit your explanation

Be clear, factual, and respectful. Avoid emotional language or threats, which reduce appeal success.

Document Everything
Take screenshots of:

• • The removed content

  • The removal notification/explanation

  • Proof you own the content (e.g., creation files, licenses)

This documentation is crucial if you escalate the case or face multiple removals.

Wait and Avoid Multiple Appeals

 Appeals take time—usually a few days. Submitting repeated appeals or spammy messages can delay the process.

When Should You Contact a Lawyer if your Instagram account Gets Suspended?

Most single post removals don’t require legal help, especially if they don’t impact revenue or visibility. However, consider legal support if:

• The removed content is part of a paid partnership and risks breaching contracts.

• You’ve faced multiple violations, and your account risks suspension.

• You’re dealing with false copyright or trademark claims harming your brand.

• You exhausted all appeals and the content is legally yours.

Legal support costs money and should be treated as an investment in protecting your business, especially if your account and revenue depend on Instagram.

Is This a One-Off or a Red Flag?

One removal doesn’t usually threaten your account, but multiple strikes can lead to:

• Shadowbanning (content not appearing in hashtags)

• Reduced reach

• Temporary account suspensions

If this happens, check our Instagram suspension recovery guide for detailed help.

Prevent Future Issues

• Avoid reposting content without permission or proper credit.

• Double-check sensitive topics like nudity, misinformation, or copyrighted material.

• Use original visuals or royalty-free assets when possible.

• Separate personal opinions from content that may be flagged as misinformation or hate speech.
  

If you’re uncertain about your account’s status or have had multiple posts removed, professional advice can make a difference. At Cabilly & Co., we assist e-commerce brands, creators, and influencers with Instagram issues — from content removals to full account suspensions.