The practice of automatically following accounts on the Instagram platform, often through the use of third-party software or services, aims to rapidly expand one’s network. An example would be utilizing a program that is set to follow all new accounts that use a specific hashtag related to photography.
This automated approach is often pursued to increase visibility, gain followers, and potentially boost engagement with content. Historically, it has been employed as a growth hacking tactic, intended to quickly build a large audience. However, its effectiveness and ethical implications are subjects of ongoing debate within the social media marketing landscape.