Starting a new Instagram account is exciting until the platform decides you might be a bot.
That’s exactly what happened to me in my very first week and it nearly killed my reach before I’d even built momentum.
If you’re launching a new account or growing one right now, learn from my mistakes so you don’t trip the same algorithmic red flags I did.
Why New Accounts Get Restricted
Instagram’s algorithms are designed to protect the platform from spam and automation tools. In those first days, IG is watching everything: your engagement speed, device usage, bio setup, and even your external links.
If your behavior looks “bot-like,” you risk:
- Temporary restrictions
- Loss of non-follower reach
- Delays in monetization features
💡 Want to understand exactly how Instagram’s algorithms work?
Read my guide: The 7 Instagram Algorithms You Must Trigger
Mistake #1: Bot-Like Engagement Behavior
I was so eager to grow that I…
- Followed dozens of accounts in minutes
- Left emoji-only comments everywhere
- Rapid-fire liked posts without even reading them
Why this is a problem:
IG’s algorithms track your interaction patterns. Too much, too fast = suspicious activity.
In the first few weeks, you need to engage like a human: space out follows, leave thoughtful comments, and like content at a natural pace.
Mistake #2: Dropping My Link in Bio Too Soon
By week 1, my Stan Store link was already sitting in my bio like a neon sign.
Instagram didn’t trust me yet—and adding a link too early triggered suspicion.
Why this is a problem:
Your bio is part of the Profile SEO Algorithm. New accounts with outbound links before building trust signals can get flagged.
Fix: Wait until you’ve posted consistently, engaged naturally, and established your profile before adding links.
Mistake #3: Switching Devices in Week 1
I thought it was harmless to check IG on both my phone and laptop.
Turns out IG tracks device switching—and it’s another spam signal.
Why this is a problem:
Multiple logins from different devices can look like account sharing or automation tools.
Fix: Stick to one mobile device in week 1. If possible, use mobile data instead of Wi-Fi for extra trust points.
What a Monetization Warning Really Means
I also learned that a monetization warning ⚠️ is not the same as a restriction.
It won’t hurt your growth or reach. It just means you’re not yet eligible for bonuses or subscriptions.
How to Recover From (or Prevent) a Restriction
The good news? You can reset your account’s trust score and restore your reach.
I created a free 72-Hour Account Reset Guide that walks you through exactly how to:
- Remove restrictions
- Rebuild trust signals
- Get the algorithm to push your content again
Grab it instantly here: Download the Instagram Recovery Guide.
Final Takeaway
The first few weeks of a new Instagram account are critical.
Move too fast, push too hard, or skip trust-building steps—and you risk tanking your visibility before you’ve even started.
Follow the slow, steady, human-first approach, and you’ll set yourself up for long-term growth, reach, and monetization.
