Fluctuations in the number of accounts a user follows on Instagram can stem from several factors. These fluctuations represent an alteration to the list of profiles a user has chosen to receive updates from. This count may decrease if other users unfollow the account, or if Instagram removes inactive or spam accounts. Similarly, the number may increase when the user follows new accounts.
Maintaining an accurate follower and following count is important for users as it often serves as a metric for perceived influence, popularity, or community engagement. In the context of businesses and influencers, this metric is used to measure the reach and effectiveness of marketing strategies. Historically, this metric has also been subject to manipulation through the use of bots or purchased followers, leading Instagram to implement measures designed to ensure the authenticity of these numbers.