Want to message a private account on Instagram? Looking at Instagram's layout, you may think it's not possible unless you follow them. However, there are some workarounds with which you can message a private account on Instagram. We will discuss that in this guide.

Can You Message a Private Account on Instagram?

Yes, you can message private accounts on Instagram, assuming that the user hasn't blocked messages from strangers. But since you are planning to message someone who's keeping their account private on the platform, there are certain things to keep in mind before you move forward. Always ensure to be respectful to the person you are messaging. When you message a private account on Instagram without following them, it usually goes to the Requests page. If they do not accept your message request, avoid being pushy by messaging again and again.

While messaging the person, it's best to start by introducing yourself and your agenda. Remember that messaging someone without following them first can look shady. Generic or spammy messages are less likely to be well-received. Along with that, never send unsolicited photos, videos, or links without their consent.

Option 1: Follow the Account, Then Message Them

This is the easiest way to get a message to a private account on Instagram if you want to reduce the probability of your message staying on the Requests page unattended. Just open the profile of the person on Instagram and then hit "Follow." If they follow you, you can message them from the profile or the Messages page easily.

Option 2: DM a Private Account (Without Following) in Messages

If you want to message a private account on Instagram without following them, then you can use the Search feature on the Messaging page to DM a private account on Instagram. For that, open Instagram and tap the Messages icon in the top right corner.

Now, type the username of the person to message on the search bar. From the results, choose the account. If you are unable to find the person, ensure that you have entered the right username.

Once the message screen is opened, type and send your message.

Option 3: DM a Private Instagram Account From Their Profile

Apart from the Messages page, you can also DM a person directly from their profile without following them. For that, open their profile on Instagram and hit the "three-dot menu icon" at the top right corner.

Choose "Send message."

Type your message and then tap the Send button.

That's it! These are all the ways with which you can message a private account on Instagram. However, if you see the text "You can't message this account unless they follow you," you will be required to follow the account and then message.

How to View Message Requests on Instagram

You might have noticed we mentioned that the messages you drop will be moved to the "Requests" tab before the user approves it. So, how do you view these requests?

For that, you need to open Instagram and head over to the Messages page by tapping the speech bubble icon in the top-right corner.

Tap "Requests."

Here, you will see all the requests you have received. Open any of the requests.

Once you open the message, you can choose between "Block," "Delete," and "Accept."

How to Block Messages From Unknown People

If you are not interested in receiving any messages from strangers, Instagram provides you the option to block all of them.

Open the app and tap your profile icon at the bottom right corner.

Next, choose the hamburger menu in the top right corner and select "Settings and Privacy."

Now, select "Messages and Story Replies."

Tap "Message controls."

From here, select "Your Followers on Instagram."

Next, select "Don't Receive Requests."

Tap "Update Settings."

Repeat the same steps under "People on Facebook" and "Others on Instagram."