In today’s world, social media platforms like Instagram have become an integral part of our daily routine. While they offer us the opportunity to connect with friends and family, social media platforms can also be a source of online harassment and bullying. To address this problem, Instagram has introduced two new privacy features: ‘Block’ and ‘Restrict.’ Although both options aim to protect users from unwanted interactions, they serve different purposes. Here’s a guide to help you understand when you should use each privacy option.

Block

The ‘Block’ option is more severe than the ‘Restrict’ option. It is used when you want to stop a user from being able to view your content or interact with you on Instagram entirely. When you block someone, they’ll no longer be able to follow you, see your photos, or engage with you in any way. Blocked users won’t be notified that they’ve been blocked, but they’ll likely realize it when they can no longer access your content. You can block users by going to their profile and selecting the three dots icon on the top right corner, then selecting ‘Block.’

You should use the ‘Block’ option if you’re being harassed or bullied by a user, don’t want them to be able to see or interact with you on Instagram, or if you’re uncomfortable with their behavior.

Restrict

The ‘Restrict’ option, on the other hand, is a more subtle way of reducing interactions with a user. When you restrict someone, their comments will only be visible to them, and you’ll be able to choose whether or not you want to see them. The user will not know that you’ve restricted them, and their messages will appear in a separate message list, so you can choose to read or delete them. The restricted user will not be able to see when you’re online, and they won’t be able to see your ‘story’ unless you approve it. To restrict a user, go to their profile, select the three dots icon, and select ‘Restrict.’

You should use the ‘Restrict’ option if you’re unsure about a user’s intentions, but you don’t want to block them entirely. Restricting a user can give you time to evaluate their behavior and decide whether or not you want to continue engaging with them.