The practice involves acquiring ownership and control of an existing Instagram profile from another individual or entity, typically through a financial transaction. This transfer of ownership includes associated content, followers, and engagement metrics. For instance, a business might engage in this activity to quickly establish a presence within a specific niche market.
The appeal of this practice lies in the potential for immediate access to an established audience and brand recognition. Historical motivations have ranged from accelerating marketing campaigns to circumventing the time and resources required to build a following organically. However, such transactions carry inherent risks and potential long-term repercussions related to authenticity, compliance with Instagram’s terms of service, and the potential for negative impacts on brand reputation.
