8 Easy Ways to See Private Instagram Accounts (in 2025)

Intro

Privacy is a core pillar of social media platforms, and Instagram is no exception.

However, there may be instances when someone has a valid reason to view private Instagram accounts—for example, to monitor a child’s account, check a collaborator’s activity, or ensure personal safety online. While Instagram offers clear regulations on respecting privacy, there are legitimate and ethical ways to access private content when appropriate.

This article explores eight methods to see private Instagram accounts (including paid apps or free ways). We'll provide an overview of their functionalities, pricing, pros and cons, and considerations for staying within Instagram’s guidelines.

Why View Private Instagram Accounts?

Several scenarios might make you curious about private Instagram profiles. These include personal responsibilities, security concerns, or professional interests. Some common reasons people explore private profiles are:

• **Parental Control:**Parents may want to ensure their child's social media activity is safe.
• Influencer Authenticity: Bloggers and brands might want to verify an influencer’s content before collaboration.
• Background Checks: Safety precautions often include a casual review of another’s social media activity.

That said, Instagram has clear regulations regarding privacy protection. Per the platform’s official guidelines, viewing or sharing private content without permission is strictly against its rules. Always respect platform terms and personal privacy boundaries when leveraging tools or methods.

Read Instagram's privacy regulations here.

Tools and Ways to Help You View Private Instagram Accounts

1. Glassagram

Glassagram (recently rebranded to Glassagrm) is a private Instagram viewer tool that specializes in providing anonymous access to stories, posts, and even direct messages on private accounts.

But, how does Glassagram work?

To set it up, it requires your email address and an Instagram account connected to a Facebook profile. Once registered, add the target user’s username to view their private feed anonymously.

Glassagram comes with a price tag of $50 per month. It also has limited functionality, only giving access to recent posts and stories. Additionally, you can check hot likes, new followers, and following, together with location tags.

Features:

• Real-time Story Viewing: Glassagram can access private Instagram Stories without leaving a trace.
• DM Access: Private messages on the user’s account are also accessible through this tool.
• Parental Monitoring: Parents can view their child’s social media activities through this tool.
• Account Access: Glassagram allows you to anonymously view the user's profile, including posts and followers.

So, what are the pros and cons?

• Pros: Easy to set up and use. Anonymous access and tracking history.
• Cons: High price for limited functionality. May not work on private accounts with high privacy settings.

Pro Tip: Use Glassagram for quick insights, but ensure you’re using it ethically and legally.

2. eyeZy

If Glassagram is expensive for you, eyeZy might be a better fit. It offers a free trial period, and its monthly subscription starts at $47.99.

eyeZy allows users to view private profiles including stories after completing a survey or downloading an app. While it may have some limitations in functionality, it gives access to the target profile’s posts and followers list.

Features:

• Story Viewer: View private stories, archives, and highlights.
• Profile Viewer: See private profiles’ posts, followers, following lists (in the process of being discontinued), and tagged images from individuals they follow.

Here are the pros and cons:

• **Pros:**More accessible pricing plans compared to Glassagram. Offers extra features like downloading videos and photos from private accounts.
• Cons: Not compatible with all devices. May take longer to provide access due to survey requirements.

**Pro Tip: **Use eyeZy for occasional access to private profiles, but be mindful of completing surveys or downloading apps.

3. Spokeo

Spokeo is another popular tool for viewing private Instagram accounts. It provides comprehensive background checks, including social media analysis, and offers a free trial period.

However, Spokeo may not give access to all profiles due to privacy settings or restrictions. And while it provides detailed information about the target user’s online presence, it comes for $19.95 for seven days.

Features:

• Anonymous Browsing: You can access the target profile without leaving any trace.
• Number Lookup: Spokeo’s number lookup feature allows you to find additional social media profiles associated with the same phone number.
• IGTV Viewer: You can view IGTV videos from private accounts without following them.
• Reels Viewer: Similar to IGTV, you can watch Reels from private profiles.
• High-Resolution Photos: You can save high-resolution photos from private profiles without a watermark.
• User Insights: Spokeo provides insights into the number of followers and following, likes on posts, and mutual connections between you and the target user.

So, what are the pros and cons?

• Pros: In-depth background checks and social media analysis. A free trial period is available.
• **Cons:**Higher price compared to other tools. Limited functionality for viewing private Instagram accounts.

4. xMobi

xMobi is a mobile application available for both iOS and Android devices. It offers anonymous access to private Instagram accounts, including stories and direct messages.

The app comes with various subscription plans and a free trial with 14 14-day moneyback guarantee.

Features:

• Anonymous Story Viewing: View private stories without leaving any trace.
• Direct Messages Access: xMobi allows you to see private messages on the user's account anonymously.
• Location Tracking: You can track the location of where an Instagram story was taken, even if it has expired.

Pros: Offers real-time monitoring and tracking features. More affordable pricing compared to other tools.

Cons: May not work on all private accounts. Limited functionality for viewing posts and followers.

Pro Tip: Use xMobi for tracking stories, but be cautious of location tracking if using it for unethical purposes.

5. Direct Request Approach

While the above tools provide anonymous access to private Instagram accounts, they may not always work. In such cases, you can take a direct approach by requesting to follow the target user.

Here’s how it works:

• Go to the target profile and click on “Follow.”
• If you get a notification saying that your request has been sent, wait for a response.
• Once accepted, you will have access to their posts, stories, and DMs.

Pros: Allows direct and legitimate access to private accounts (if accepted). No risk of your account getting flagged or banned.

Cons: Requires permission from the user and public display of your interest in their profile.

Pro Tip: Be cautious and respectful when using this approach. Only request to follow private accounts if you have a legitimate reason and are willing to engage with the user's content in a meaningful way.

**6. Mutual Friends **

Another way to gain access to private Instagram accounts is through mutual friends. If you have a mutual friend with the target user, you can ask them for permission to view their private account.

Here’s how it works:

• Reach out to your mutual friend and explain why you would like to view the private account.
• Ask if they could send a request on your behalf or provide a screenshot of the profile's content.
• Once accepted, you will be able to view posts, stories, and DMs from that account.

Pros: Allows direct and legitimate access to private accounts (if accepted). No risk of your account getting flagged or banned.

Cons: Requires permission from the mutual friend and potential lack of privacy for your request.

Pro Tip: Be respectful and transparent when requesting access through a mutual friend. Only ask for their help if you have a genuine reason to view the private account.

7. Fake Profiles (Not Recommended)

Using fake profiles to gain access to private Instagram accounts is not recommended, as it violates the platform's terms and conditions. However, some people may choose this method as a last resort.

Here’s how it works:

• Create a fake profile with a different name and information.
• Send a follow request to the target user.
• If accepted, you will be able to view their posts, stories, and DMs.

Pros: Allows direct access to private accounts (if successful).

Cons: Violates Instagram's terms of service and can result in your account getting banned or reported for impersonation. Requires creating a fake identity.

Pro Tip: Avoid using this method as it goes against Instagram's policies and can have severe consequences. Use at your own risk.

8. Cross-Platform Insights

Another option for viewing private Instagram accounts is to try and gather information from other social media platforms. Many users link their Instagram profiles to their Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn accounts.

Here's how it works:

• Search for the target user on other social media platforms they may have linked their Instagram account to.
• Find the tooltip button, click on it and ask to connect
• Check for any public posts or information that might give you insights into their private account.
• Use the gathered information to request access through a mutual friend or use one of the above tools.

Pros: Can provide additional information about the user and potentially lead to gaining access to their private account.

Cons: May not always work if the user has different privacy settings on different platforms. Requires additional effort to cross-reference information.

Pro Tip: Be respectful and cautious when gathering information from other social media platforms. Do not violate the user's privacy or infringe on their rights in any way.

FAQs

Is it legal to view private Instagram accounts?

Viewing private Instagram accounts without explicit permission violates Instagram’s terms of service. Always act ethically and obtain consent when applicable.

Can I get banned for using third-party Instagram tools?

Yes, using unauthorized tools to exploit Instagram's API or violate privacy may lead to account suspension or a permanent ban. Use only approved, legal solutions.

What is the safest way to view private Instagram profiles?

The safest approach is sending a follow request directly to the user. Transparency is always the best policy.

Ethical Visibility is Key

While curiosity can be a strong motivator, respecting boundaries and following Instagram’s community guidelines remains paramount.

Use the tools and methods we’ve outlined responsibly, and always prioritize transparency and ethics in your social media interactions.

Disclaimer: This article does not endorse unethical or illegal practices. Always ensure you have consent or a valid reason before attempting to view private accounts.