An inability to add new accounts to one’s following list on Instagram can stem from a variety of factors implemented by the platform to maintain user experience and security. These measures might be triggered when account activity raises concerns, such as exceeding daily follow limits or violating community guidelines. For instance, if a user rapidly follows a large number of accounts within a short period, Instagram’s algorithms may flag this behavior as potential spam, restricting further follow actions.
The restrictions are put in place to combat spam, bot activity, and other forms of abuse that can negatively impact the Instagram community. These measures help ensure that the platform remains a genuine space for users to connect and share content, free from manipulative or fraudulent practices. Initially, Instagram focused on purely reactive measures; however, they have evolved to more proactive methods, anticipating and mitigating potential abuses before they significantly affect the user base.