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Writer's pictureNatanja

Instagram #banned hastags​



In a world were ranking high and having the most followers and post likes, Instagram has #banned some hashtags!


Instagram’s next big power move over fake activity and spam accounts is here and they turned their attention to hashtags. Over the last year, Instagram has slowly been building a “hit list” of hashtags that are being banned across the app.


Any post containing these hashtags are hidden from hashtag searches and explore pages, and the list continues to grow. More and more users and businesses are starting to see the harmful effects of these banned Instagram hashtags. With their every changing algorithms and platform update, in their efforts to implement methods to protect the app’s authenticity, Instagram’s bot detection has started flagging accounts as spam if they use certain hashtags.


If you use a banned hashtag your content will not be seen by others, Instagram could shadow ban, block or penalise your account. I would recommend that you check out the list of banned hashtags before your create your next post! With over 60 000 banned hashtags I am sure we are all using banned hashtags without even knowing it.



Why are some common, potentially harmless, hashtags banned?

For example, #happythanksgiving, was temporarily banned this year. Why you might ask? It produced a huge amount of spam. Instagram has put certain methods into place to stop the reach of spammy Instagram accounts, as many hashtags can do. Although some of these bans are temporary, it’s better to reframe from using them altogether. Find hashtags that are still common and will envoke high engagement, but isn’t on the list of banned Instagram hashtags below.


What could happen if I use banned Instagram hashtags in 2019?

The repetitive use of banned hashtags causing Instagram’s bot-finding algorithms to flag your account. For example, if you use the hashtag #happythanksgiving, not only will your content most likely not show up for that hashtag, you might also be flagged for spam. Multiple flags could lead to shadow banning or account removal. Shadow banning is somewhat secret, meaning a lot of users won’t even know its happening. If you look at your weekly or monthly engagement reports and notice your content is receiving fewer likes and comments, or aren’t appearing in hashtag searches at all, you might be shadow banned. Don’t worry, this isn’t necessarily permanent, as long as you review Instagram’s Community Guidelines and Terms of Use, or work with a social media company that is aware of the existing and changing terms, your content will start gaining regular or increased engagement in no time.


It is vital for marketers, businesses and IG users alike to be aware of these banned Instagram hashtags in 2019.


I have done the test and I use 0 banned hashtags #happydance!


What are your thoughts on banned hashtags?

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