Avoiding Shadow Ban: The Lowdown
- Alexandra Gault
- Nov 7, 2017
- 2 min read

If you've been affected by shadow banning, then you already well know how frustrating and confusing it can be! And if you haven't, well, you want to do everything you can to avoid falling prey. We're here to make your life a little bit easier with some of our top tips for avoiding a shadow ban.
What is shadow banning? Basically, it's Instagram's way of making sure everyone's playing a fair game and promoting content accurately. Over the years, several Instagram users have begun tagging posts with irrelevant hashtags, simply to broaden their target audience. The result? A hodge-podge of content and no easy way to find what you're actually looking for. Enter stage right: shadow banning. Now if users try and break the rules, their posts will no longer be visible to other Instagrammers. Here's the catch - Instagram won't tell you if this happens - you'll just notice a huge decrease in engagement.
Here are 3 basic ways to avoid a shadow ban
1. Don't Use Banned Hashtags!
We know, we know! The hashtag boho is just so popular! But these days, it's just a little too cool. So cool, that it's officially on the list of banned Instagram hashtags. We bet you didn't know that was a thing! There is in fact a list of banned Instagram hashtags that you should always steer clear of. You can read more about specific banned hashtags at PLANN.

2. Avoid Overusing Hashtags!
You don't have to use a banned hashtag to have a post become affected by a shadow ban. Researchers at Later.com say that overusing the same set of hashtags on every single post can actually trick Instagram into thinking you're a bot, or that you're using unapproved posting software (see point 3). The solution? Rotate your hashtags for every post - make sure they're relevant but also are not a repeat of the prior set.

3. Stay Away from Scheduling Apps!
Well, not entirely. Just make sure you're using Instagram approved apps to plan your content! If Instagram discovers that you're posting through an app such as Planoly, they just may shadow ban you. According to social media expert, Caitlin Hughes, using third party posting apps can make it look like you're 'bulk posting,' something that Instagram tries to avoid. The best way to cut the risk? Use Instagram approved planning software, such as Buffer!
Shadow banning doesn't have to be a scary unknown! With a little bit of planning, research and know-how, you can avoid shadow ban and continue sharing amazing content with your followers. You've got this, flutterbies! If you have any other tips for avoiding shadow ban, let us know in the comments below!
Let's get social,
Alex, Brianna, Cameron, Sydney and Cat
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