When you use the "Restrict" feature on Instagram, it enables you to limit interactions and control how someone interacts with your account without them knowing it. Here's what happens when you restrict someone on Instagram:
1. Comments: When you restrict someone, their comments on your posts won't be visible to the public unless you approve them. The restricted user will not be notified that their comments are restricted. This is useful when dealing with unwanted or inappropriate comments from specific individuals.
2. Direct Messages: Direct messages from a restricted user will be moved to the "Message Requests" section rather than your main inbox. You can view their messages privately and decide whether to allow or ignore them. The restricted user will still see that their message has been delivered but won't be notified if you have read it or not.
3. Story Views: When you restrict someone, they won't be able to see when you've viewed their Instagram Stories. Similarly, you won't be able to see if they've viewed your stories or when they were last active on the platform.
4. Activity Status: When you restrict someone, they won't be able to see your activity status, indicating whether you're currently online or when you were last active on Instagram. Likewise, you won't be able to see their activity status.
5. Profile: Your profile remains visible to a restricted user, meaning they can still visit your profile, view your posts, and follow you if they aren't already. However, Instagram gives you the option to make your profile private, allowing only approved followers to see your posts, if desired.
Restricting someone on Instagram provides a level of control over your account and protects your overall online experience by limiting unwanted interactions discreetly. It maintains a sense of privacy without completely blocking someone from accessing your account, which can be useful when dealing with individuals whose behavior you want to manage while avoiding potential conflict or escalating the situation.