How to turn off read receipts on Instagram

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting for turning off read receipts on Instagram.

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To turn off read receipts on Instagram, navigate to your profile, tap on the three horizontal lines in the top right corner, select 'Settings', then 'Privacy', and toggle off 'Read Receipts'. This will prevent others from seeing when you've read their direct messages.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before proceeding to turn off read receipts on Instagram, ensure you meet the following requirements.
  • •An active Instagram account.
  • •The latest version of the Instagram app installed on your device (check for updates in the App Store or Google Play Store).
  • •Internet connection (Wi-Fi or mobile data).
  • •Access to your account settings.

Method 1: Turning Off Read Receipts via Instagram App

This method is the primary way to disable read receipts directly through the Instagram app. Use this method if you primarily access Instagram through your mobile device.
  • •Step 1: Open the Instagram app on your mobile device.
  • •Step 2: Tap on your profile icon in the bottom right corner.
  • •Step 3: Tap on the three horizontal lines (menu) in the top right corner.
  • •Step 4: Select 'Settings' from the menu.
  • •Step 5: Tap on 'Privacy'.
  • •Step 6: Scroll down to 'Messages' and toggle off 'Read Receipts'.
  • •Step 7: A confirmation message may appear; ensure the toggle is set to off (gray).
  • •Step 8: To verify it worked, send a message to a friend and check if they can see when you read it.

For Windows 11

If you're using Instagram on Windows 11 via the app or web browser, follow these steps.
  • •Step 1: Open Instagram in your web browser or the Instagram app.
  • •Step 2: Click on your profile picture in the top right corner.
  • •Step 3: Select 'Settings' from the dropdown menu.
  • •Step 4: Click on 'Privacy and Security'.
  • •Step 5: Scroll to 'Messages' and uncheck 'Read Receipts'.
  • •Step 6: Confirm the changes by checking the setting again.

For Windows 10

The steps are similar to Windows 11, but the interface may vary slightly.
  • •Step 1: Launch the Instagram app or open it in your web browser.
  • •Step 2: Click on your profile icon in the top right corner.
  • •Step 3: Choose 'Settings' from the dropdown.
  • •Step 4: Navigate to 'Privacy and Security'.
  • •Step 5: Find 'Messages' and toggle off 'Read Receipts'.
  • •Step 6: Verify by sending a message to check if the read receipt is disabled.

Method 2: Using Instagram on a Mobile Browser

If you prefer using Instagram through a mobile browser, you can also disable read receipts through the mobile web interface.
  • •Step 1: Open a mobile browser and go to www.instagram.com.
  • •Step 2: Log in to your account.
  • •Step 3: Tap on your profile icon in the bottom right corner.
  • •Step 4: Tap on the gear icon (settings) next to 'Edit Profile'.
  • •Step 5: Select 'Privacy and Security'.
  • •Step 6: Scroll down to 'Messages' and toggle off 'Read Receipts'.
  • •Step 7: Confirm the changes and verify by sending a message.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while trying to disable read receipts, consider the following solutions.
  • •Error: 'Setting not saving' - Solution: Ensure you have the latest app version and restart the app.
  • •Issue: 'Read receipts still visible' - Fix: Log out and log back into your account to refresh settings.
  • •Problem: 'Can't find the option' - Workaround: Check if your app is updated; the feature may not be available in older versions.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

For power users, here are some tips and shortcuts to enhance your Instagram experience.
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Ctrl + Shift + I (Windows) - Opens Developer Tools for advanced users.
  • •Command line: N/A - Instagram does not support command line access.
  • •Hidden feature: Mute conversations - Long press on a chat to mute notifications without turning off read receipts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

To maintain privacy while using Instagram, regularly check your privacy settings and stay updated with app changes.