How to Unblock Someone on Instagram in 2025

Ever stared at your Instagram feed, scrolling through photos of friends and family, only to realize someone important is missing? Sarah did. After a heated argument with her college roommate, she had blocked her in the heat of the moment. Six months later, with cooler heads prevailing, she wanted to reconnect but couldn't figure out how to unblock her friend on Instagram's constantly evolving interface. If you're like Sarah or among the millions wondering "how do I unblock someone on Instagram" in 2025, you're not alone.

Instagram's Blocking Feature: What Changed in 2025

Instagram's blocking feature has undergone several updates since its inception, with the most recent changes implemented in early 2025. The platform now offers more nuanced privacy controls, but the core functionality of blocking and unblocking remains similar to previous versions.

When you block someone on Instagram:

• They can't see your profile, posts, or stories
• They can't find you through Instagram's search function
• Any direct messages between you remain but they can't send new ones
• They won't be notified that you've blocked them

The good news is that unblocking is just as straightforward, though Instagram now enforces a 24-hour cooling-off period before you can block someone again after unblocking them – a feature added to prevent harassment cycles.

Step-by-Step Guide to Unblock Someone on Instagram in 2025

Method 1: Through Your Profile Settings

1. Open the Instagram app on your device
2. Tap on your profile picture in the bottom right
3. Tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines) in the top right
4. Go to Settings and Privacy
5. Scroll down and select Privacy
6. Tap on Blocked Accounts
7. Find the person you want to unblock
8. Tap Unblock next to their name
9. Confirm your decision when prompted

Method 2: Through the Search Function (New in 2025)

Instagram's latest update allows for a quicker unblocking process:

1. Tap the search icon at the bottom of your screen
2. Type the username of the blocked person
3. When their profile appears with a "Blocked" label, tap on it
4. Tap the Unblock button on their profile
5. Confirm your decision

What Happens After You Unblock Someone?

After unblocking someone on Instagram, several things happen:

• They can view your profile, posts, and stories again (if your account is public)
• They can search for and find your account
• They can send you direct messages (if your message settings allow it)
• Important : They won't automatically follow you again – if they were following you before, they'll need to request or follow you again

When Instagram Blocking Features Don't Work: Connection Issues

Sometimes, Instagram users encounter technical difficulties when trying to manage their blocked list. These issues often stem from poor internet connectivity or app glitches. If you're experiencing problems while trying to unblock someone, it might be due to your internet connection.

This is where a reliable VPN like SafeShell VPN can help. Beyond its primary benefits for streaming services, SafeShell VPN provides stable, secure connections that can resolve many Instagram connectivity issues. With its lightning-fast speeds and robust security features, SafeShell VPN ensures that your Instagram actions – including unblocking users – go through smoothly without interruption.

Privacy Considerations When Unblocking Someone

When you unblock someone on Instagram, they won't receive a notification about this action. However, if your account is public, they'll suddenly be able to see your content again, which might indirectly alert them to the change in status.

If you're concerned about privacy while managing your Instagram relationships, using a VPN like SafeShell VPN adds an extra layer of security to your online activities. Its "ShellGuard" protocol ensures that your Instagram usage remains private, protecting your data from potential surveillance.

Alternative Approaches to Managing Difficult Instagram Relationships

Instead of blocking and unblocking, consider these alternatives:

• Mute : Allows you to hide someone's posts and stories without them knowing
• Restrict : Limits what they can see and how they can interact with you
• Close Friends : Create a selective list for sharing more personal content
• Archive : Temporarily hide specific posts from everyone

Using SafeShell VPN for Secure Instagram Access

While unblocking someone on Instagram is straightforward, ensuring your overall Instagram experience remains private and secure requires additional measures. SafeShell VPN offers several benefits for Instagram users:

• Bypass regional restrictions : Access Instagram features that might be limited in certain countries
• Protect your data : Prevent third parties from monitoring your Instagram activity
• Maintain stable connections : Enjoy uninterrupted access to Instagram, even on unreliable networks
• Multi-device support : Secure your Instagram experience across all your devices simultaneously

With its user-friendly interface and support for multiple devices, SafeShell VPN makes securing your Instagram experience simple, allowing you to focus on rebuilding those important connections without privacy concerns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the person know I've unblocked them on Instagram?

No, Instagram doesn't send notifications when you unblock someone. However, they may notice if they suddenly can see your profile again.

Can I unblock someone immediately after blocking them?

Yes, but Instagram's new 2025 policy prevents you from blocking them again for 24 hours after unblocking.

Will unblocking someone restore our previous direct messages?

Yes, your previous conversation history will still be there, though any messages they sent while blocked won't have been delivered.

Why would I need a VPN like SafeShell VPN for Instagram?

While not necessary for basic functions, SafeShell VPN provides enhanced security for your Instagram activities, protects your data from surveillance, and ensures stable connections even on unreliable networks.

Can I use SafeShell VPN to access Instagram if it's restricted in my country?

Yes, SafeShell VPN's advanced technology allows you to bypass regional restrictions, giving you access to Instagram even in locations where it might be limited or blocked.

After unblocking someone, will they automatically follow me again?

No, they will need to request to follow you again or follow you if your account is public.

Social media relationships can be complicated, but managing them doesn't have to be. Whether you're reconnecting with an old friend like Sarah did with her roommate, or simply cleaning up your blocked list, knowing how to unblock someone on Instagram is an essential skill for 2025's digital landscape. And with tools like SafeShell VPN , you can ensure your online interactions remain secure and private, giving you peace of mind as you navigate your social connections.