Instagram allows users to check if someone’s username has recently changed, which can be pivotal in verifying the authenticity of an account. This functionality is accessible both on mobile and web applications, providing valuable insights into how many times a user’s handle has been modified in the past.
How to Verify Changes in Someone’s Instagram Username
To begin, enter the Instagram handle of the user in question, then navigate to their profile. Next, click on the three-dot menu icon to access further options. From there, select About this account.
Scroll down until you find the Former usernames section at the bottom of the window. This section will display how many times the user has changed their handle. To dig deeper, tap the > icon to reveal previous usernames.
Once you access this area, you may find the total number of username changes along with the latest usernames. Depending on the account settings, you might also be able to view recent searches linked to that profile.
Exploring the Username History of Any Account
You have the opportunity to check this information not only for your account but also for profiles you follow. However, it’s essential to note that if you do not follow the user and their account is private, obtaining this information can be challenging.
The system might label some accounts as potential spam, which could prevent you from viewing their username or account history. Despite some users experiencing difficulties in accessing this feature on non-business profiles, I discovered it worked seamlessly on personal and creator accounts. If the feature is missing, it could indicate that the user hasn’t been active on Instagram for an extended period.
Understanding Limitations in Viewing Former Usernames
Although you can often view the total number of username changes, recent changes may not be accessible unless they have altered their handle recently. For instance, in my personal case, I could see the number of times I changed my username, but the recent history was not displayed since my last update had been several months prior.
If there are no recent changes, this may suggest the account is authentic. I frequently utilize this feature to review follow requests and make informed decisions about allowing users to follow me.
Discover More in the “About This Account” Section
While the About this account section doesn’t provide exhaustive information, it does offer insights into the user’s profile, such as their join date on Instagram. This feature parallels options available on other platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and YouTube.
Knowing the join date is handy for assessing whether an account is genuine or spam, making it a valuable resource. Additionally, it may include location information; however, this should be taken lightly as it may not always reflect the user’s current status. For instance, my previous account still indicated that I was based in the UK, despite living abroad for some time.
Checking an account’s username changes is a straightforward process that requires minimal effort. Just a couple of taps can yield significant insights, although specific username histories may not always be accessible.
Image credit: Unsplash. All screenshots by Danny Maiorca.
Additional Insights
1. Can I see the former usernames of a private account?
No, if the account is private and you do not follow them, you will not have access to their former usernames or even their overall username change history.
2. What does the “About this account”section include?
This section provides valuable insights such as the date the user joined Instagram, their current username, former usernames, and occasionally their location, which can help assess the account’s authenticity.
3. Why might I not see username changes for some accounts?
There are several reasons you might not see username changes: the user may not have made recent changes, their privacy settings may restrict visibility, or the account could be flagged as spam, preventing access to its details.
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