Instagram does not notify users when their profile is searched or viewed by another user. There is no feature within the platform that provides an alert when someone looks up an account. The search function is designed to facilitate finding accounts, but it does not compromise user privacy by revealing who is conducting those searches.
This lack of notification contributes to a sense of privacy for Instagram users. Individuals can explore the platform and search for profiles without the concern of alerting those accounts. This function encourages exploration and engagement, allowing users to discover content and connect with others without the pressure of immediate reciprocation or awareness. In the early days of social media, privacy concerns were not as prevalent, but as these platforms evolved, maintaining user privacy became a significant consideration. This design choice on Instagram reflects that shift.