Browsing Instagram Notification can sometimes lead to encountering a list of people under “Who You Might Know.” It’s puzzling when you already follow a friend’s main account, prompting the question: did Instagram suggest an additional account? You might also see your best friend’s college acquaintances or even someone entirely unfamiliar, raising curiosity about their presence in your feed.
Does the “Who You Might Know” section indicate that these users recently viewed your profile? Many wonder if these suggestions reflect the most recent visitors to your account. There’s a reason behind the appearance of these individuals in your notifications.
You’re not alone in pondering this mystery; many users share your curiosity. For an in-depth exploration of this phenomenon, check out our blog for the full explanation.
Does Who You Might Know on Instagram Notification Mean That Was the Most Recent Person Who Viewed Your Profile?
The “Who You Might Know” notification on Instagram is both intriguing and valuable, yet it can also feel a bit unsettling. To clarify, this feature does not suggest users based on who recently viewed your profile.
Several factors contribute to the complex algorithm that generates this list. Instagram’s algorithm suggests users because it believes you may know them or have a potential connection with them. The platform aims to facilitate new connections between users who do not already follow each other.
While Instagram has not revealed the specific criteria for these suggestions, likely to protect user privacy and enhance the overall experience, we will explore some factors that may influence how Instagram curates this list.
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They are in your contacts.
Many of our phone contacts are also on Instagram, but that doesn’t mean we follow everyone. Chances are, their phone numbers are linked to their Instagram accounts. When you see their names in the “Who You Might Know” section, it indicates that Instagram has recognized this connection and notified you.
If you prefer not to receive recommendations for specific contacts, you can delete their number or reject the suggestion to prevent them from appearing in the future.
You are in their contacts.
You may have noticed someone in your “Who You Might Know” section despite not having their contact details saved. While you might think this is improbable, there’s another explanation.
The suggestion goes beyond just having their number in your phone. If they’ve saved your number, Instagram may assume you both would like to connect. If this is a concern, you can quickly turn off the contact syncing option in your Instagram settings to prevent similar recommendations in the future.
Instagram detects you live somewhere close to them
Many of us love sharing our locations when posting photos on Instagram. If you’re not a frequent traveler, your posts likely feature your hometown!
When you regularly tag your hometown in your posts or stories, Instagram learns that you either live there or visit often. If the platform identifies another user frequently posting from the exact location, it may suggest them in your “Who You Might Know” list.
Keep in mind that ceasing to share your location won’t eliminate these recommendations; this connection remains an integral part of Instagram’s operation.
You are Facebook friends.
Did you know you can connect your Facebook and Instagram accounts? When you link the two platforms, there’s a chance your Facebook friends will appear in your “Who You Might Know” list.
If their names show up, it typically means they are on Instagram and you’re not already following each other. So, if you spot your professor in that section, there’s no need to panic. If you prefer, they don’t see your account, so block them and move on.
You have mutual followers.
If you follow two of your closest friends on Instagram, and they both attend the same university, their new college friend will likely appear in your “Who You Might Know” section.
This happens because your best friends are likely following their new college acquaintances, creating mutual connections. Since you share two friends in common, Instagram suggests their names to facilitate potential connections on the platform.
You were in the same high school.
Here’s another way Instagram might have gathered this information, especially if you’re curious about it. If you and the suggested user are Facebook friends and have linked your Instagram accounts, Instagram can access details from your Facebook profiles.
Many users update their Facebook pages with their school and university information, including the years they attended. If someone appears in your “Who You Might Know” list, it’s likely because they attended the same school or college as you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the “Who You Might Know” section show the most recent profile viewers?
No, the “Who You Might Know” section does not reflect the most recent people who viewed your profile. It is based on mutual connections and various algorithmic factors.
What criteria does Instagram use to suggest people in this section?
Instagram suggests users based on shared connections, such as mutual friends, contacts saved in your phone, and interactions on the platform, including location tags.
Can I control who appears in my “Who You Might Know” list?
While you cannot directly control who appears, you can manage your contacts by deleting phone numbers or turning off contact syncing to reduce suggestions.
Why do I see people I don’t know in this section?
Instagram may suggest users with whom you share mutual connections or interests, even if you don’t know them personally.
Does blocking someone remove them from my “Who You Might Know” suggestions?
Blocking someone will prevent them from seeing your profile, but it may not immediately remove them from your “Who You Might Know” list if mutual connections exist.
Will stopping location sharing prevent recommendations?
Stopping location sharing can reduce the chances of being suggested to others, but it won’t eliminate recommendations based on other factors.
Is there a way to see who viewed my Instagram profile?
No, Instagram does not provide a feature that shows who viewed your profile. The “Who You Might Know” section is not related to profile views.
Can my Facebook friends show up in this section?
Yes, if your Instagram and Facebook accounts are linked, your Facebook friends may appear in the “Who You Might Know” section based on shared connections and information.
Conclusion
The “Who You Might Know” feature on Instagram serves as a valuable tool for connecting users based on mutual relationships and shared interests. While it may spark curiosity about profile views, it’s essential to understand that this section does not indicate the most recent individuals who visited your profile.
Instead, suggestions arise from a complex algorithm that considers factors such as mutual friends, saved contacts, and shared locations. By managing your contacts and privacy settings, you can influence these recommendations to better align with your preferences. Ultimately, this feature enhances your Instagram experience by fostering potential connections within your network.
