Instagram, with over a billion users worldwide, is a leading social media platform for sharing life, interests, and passions. A standout feature is its follow-and-follow-back dynamic, creating mutual followers.
However, users often encounter confusion when Instagram displays “Followed by 1 other” or a similar note, even when more mutual followers exist. This inconsistency raises questions about its cause.
This article uncovers the reasons behind this issue and offers insights to help you understand and resolve it effectively.
Why Doesn’t Instagram Show All Mutual Followers?
Noticing someone follows you on Instagram but not seeing them in your mutual followers list is a common issue. Several factors can cause this discrepancy, leaving many users confused.
Read More: Why Does My Instagram Show i Am Following People That i Never Did?
Privacy Settings and Visibility
Instagram’s privacy settings often explain why not all mutual followers appear. Users can set their accounts to Private, restricting their followers’ list visibility to approved followers only.
When you follow a private account and they follow you back, a mutual follow is created. However, their hidden followers’ list prevents Instagram from showing all mutual connections, instead displaying “Followed by 1 other.” This feature safeguards user privacy by concealing follower identities.
To resolve this, send a follow request to the private account. Once approved, their followers’ list will become visible, revealing all mutual followers.
Accounts with Large Follower Counts
Instagram simplifies the user experience for high-profile accounts, like celebrities and influencers, with large follower counts. When you follow such an account, you may see “Followed by 1 other,” even though there are likely thousands or millions of mutual followers.
This is because Instagram limits the display of mutual followers for these accounts to avoid clutter. Instead of listing all, it shows the total number as “1 other” for ease of use.
If you’re curious about mutual followers, you can manually browse through the follower list, but be ready for a lengthy process if the account has a vast following.
Temporary Visibility Issues
Temporary glitches or visibility issues on Instagram can occasionally cause the “Followed by 1 other” display, affecting follower counts and visibility.
To resolve this, try the following:
- Refresh the app: Simply refreshing Instagram can fix minor glitches and display the correct mutual follower count.
- Wait it out: These issues often resolve themselves as Instagram’s servers sync and update. Check again after a while for accurate data.
- Contact Instagram support: If the issue persists and isn’t related to privacy settings, reach out to Instagram’s support team for help.
Private Accounts Following Public Accounts
The “Followed by 1 other” message can also occur when a private account follows a public account. While public accounts allow anyone to follow them, private accounts have restricted visibility, which can prevent their username from appearing in the mutual followers list.
In this case, the public account owner can see the private account’s username, but others won’t. This creates the illusion of a single mutual follower, even if there are more.
To fix this, the private account owner can either switch to a public profile or follow the public account back. This will reveal their username in the followers’ list and provide an accurate count of mutual followers.
Lag in Data Synchronization
With Instagram’s large user base, synchronizing data across all accounts can be challenging, sometimes leading to delays in follower count updates.
If the mutual follower count appears incorrect, give it some time. Instagram’s servers regularly update and sync data, and most discrepancies are resolved during these routine updates.
Inactive or Banned Accounts
nstagram regularly monitors its platform to remove inactive or banned accounts. If a mutual follower has their account deactivated or banned, their profile may no longer appear in your followers’ list, leading to the “Followed by 1 other” message.
Instagram enforces its community guidelines and removes accounts involved in spam or violations. This can result in the disappearance of a previously mutual follower, and there’s little you can do to fix it, as it aligns with Instagram’s goal of maintaining a safe, authentic environment.
The “Followed by 1 other” issue can stem from factors like privacy settings, account types, glitches, and data synchronization delays. While it can be frustrating, these measures are part of Instagram’s commitment to user privacy, simplicity, and efficient data management.
Freaquently Asked Questions
Why does Instagram show “Followed by 1 other” when I have more mutual followers?
This happens for several reasons, including privacy settings, account types, data synchronization delays, or even glitches in the system.
How can I see all my mutual followers on Instagram?
You may be unable to see all mutual followers due to the other user’s privacy settings. If their account is private, or if they are a high-profile account, Instagram may limit visibility. You can try refreshing the app or waiting for the data to sync.
Why can’t I see a private account’s mutual followers?
When following a private account, their followers’ list is hidden from others, including mutual followers. Only approved followers can see their followers list.
Does the “Followed by 1 other” message appear for inactive or banned accounts?
Yes, if a mutual follower has their account banned or deactivated, Instagram will no longer display their profile in your followers list.
What can I do if the mutual follower count seems incorrect?
You can refresh the app or wait for Instagram’s servers to sync and update the data. If the issue persists, try contacting Instagram support for assistance.
Conclusion
The “Followed by 1 other” issue on Instagram can arise from various factors such as privacy settings, account types, temporary glitches, data synchronization delays, or inactive/banned accounts. While it can be confusing and frustrating, these discrepancies are typically part of Instagram’s efforts to protect user privacy, maintain a simplified user experience, and ensure accurate data management.
By understanding these causes and waiting for updates or adjustments, users can resolve most issues and enjoy a smoother experience on the platform.
