I recorded this video to show how to appear offline on Instagram — meaning other users won’t see when you’re active or recently online.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uzZ1G6vl2Ng

Instagram shows your Activity Status by default. That little green dot can let others know you’re online, and it also shows how recently you were active. Sometimes that’s fine, but if you value a bit more privacy, it’s easy to turn off.

In the video, I walk through:

  1. Opening the Instagram app
  2. Going to your profile > Settings > Privacy
  3. Tapping on Activity Status
  4. Switching off Show Activity Status

Once it’s off, nobody will see when you’re active — but you also won’t see their statuses either. I also explain how this setting applies across linked accounts (like Threads) and what happens if you’re using Instagram on multiple devices.

I keep mine off most of the time when I’m working and want to scroll without looking “available.”

Do you prefer to keep your status visible or stay low-key on socials?