Taking screenshots has become second nature in this age of social media. Whether it’s saving a funny meme, keeping track of important conversations, or bookmarking inspiring content for later, users frequently take screenshots on Instagram. However, this seemingly simple action raises important privacy questions. One question that often sparks curiosity is: Can you screenshot Instagram stories? Does Instagram notify when you screenshot a story?
In this article, we’ll explore whether Instagram notifies users when you screenshot stories, posts, direct messages, or content in Vanish mode. You will also get key tips on maintaining privacy while navigating Instagram. Keep reading!
Instagram Screenshot Notification 2025
Instagram maintains a no-notification policy for screenshots across most of its features, allowing users to capture content without alerting the creator.
However, there are two notable exceptions:
- Screenshots taken in Vanish mode.
- Screenshots of disappearing photos or videos in DMs.
These exceptions protect sensitive or private content that’s intended to be temporary, aligning with Instagram’s balance between open content sharing and user privacy.
Here’s a simple breakdown of when Instagram does and doesn’t notify users about screenshots:
Does Instagram Notify When You Screenshot a Story?
Instagram Stories are one of the platform’s most popular features, offering a fun and temporary way to share moments. Given their fleeting nature, many users wonder if Instagram notifies the creator when someone screenshots their story.
Current Screenshot Policy for Stories (2025)
As of 2025, Instagram does not notify users when someone screenshots their stories. This policy has remained consistent in recent years, making Instagram different from platforms like Snapchat, where screenshot notifications are standard.
This means you can freely capture screenshots of any story within its 24-hour window without the creator being alerted. This applies to all types of story content, including:
- Photos
- Videos
- Boomerangs
- Text posts
- Interactive elements like polls or questions
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Brief history of Instagram Screenshot Notifications
Instagram briefly tested the screenshot notification feature for stories in 2018. During this test, users who took screenshots saw a small star-shaped icon next to their name in the story viewers list, indicating that a screenshot had been taken. However, the feature was discontinued after a short trial.
Does Instagram Notify When You Screenshot a Post?
No, Instagram does not notify users when you screenshot their posts. Whether it’s a photo, video, or carousel post, you can take a screenshot without alerting the content creator.
However, it’s important to note the difference between public posts vs. private accounts:
- Public posts: Content shared on public accounts is visible to anyone. Instagram assumes users understand their content can be saved, shared, or screenshotted without restrictions.
- Private accounts: Posts shared on private accounts are only visible to approved followers. While Instagram does not notify about screenshots, unauthorized sharing of private content can lead to ethical concerns and may violate Instagram’s community guidelines.
Alternative to Screenshotting Posts: Instagram Collections
Instead of taking screenshots, users can save posts using Instagram’s Collections feature. This allows you to bookmark posts for future reference without taking screenshots.
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Does Instagram Notify When You Screenshot a DM?
Instagram’s Direct Messages (DMs) provide a private way to communicate, but screenshot policies differ depending on the type of content being shared:
- Regular text messages, shared posts, or permanent photos/videos: No notification is sent.
- Disappearing photos and videos: If someone sends you a disappearing photo or video, Instagram will notify the sender if you take a screenshot.
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Does Instagram Notify When You Screenshot a DM in Vanish Mode?
If you take a screenshot in Vanish mode, Instagram will notify the other person. Vanish mode is designed for temporary conversations, and all messages disappear after the chat is closed.
How to Protect Your Privacy on Instagram
Protecting your privacy on Instagram is essential, especially if you are concerned about people taking screenshots or sharing your content without your knowledge.
To maintain your privacy on Instagram, follow these tips:
- Switch to a Private Account – By switching to a private account, only approved followers can see your posts and stories, giving you more control over who accesses your content and reducing exposure to unwanted viewers.
- Manage Your Followers – Regularly reviewing your follower list allows you to remove untrusted or unfamiliar users, ensuring that only people you’re comfortable with can engage with your content.
- Control Story Visibility – Using Instagram’s “Close Friends” feature enables you to share stories with a select group, allowing for more privacy and personal interactions while keeping certain content hidden from the general follower list.
- Limit Sharing Permissions – Adjusting your settings to control who can tag or mention you helps prevent unwanted exposure, spam, and potential misuse of your username in public posts.
- Block or Restrict Users: If someone is making you uncomfortable on Instagram, you have the option to block or restrict them. When you restrict a user, they won’t be able to see your online status or whether you’ve read their messages. Blocking someone completely removes them from your Instagram experience.
- Report Inappropriate Content or Behavior: If you encounter someone misusing your content or violating Instagram’s Terms of Service, you can report them, and Instagram will review the issue.
Other Ways to See If People Are Sharing Your Instagram Content
While Instagram does not notify users when someone takes a screenshot, there are other ways to check if people are sharing your content. One effective way is by monitoring your engagement metrics, such as shares and saves, within Instagram Insights.
If you have a business or creator account, you can access these insights to see how many times your post has been shared via direct messages.
Additionally, if someone shares your post to their story and they have a public account, you may receive a notification. Checking your story viewers list and post interactions can also help determine if others are engaging with and potentially sharing your content.
How to Screenshot Disappearing Photos & Videos in DMs Without Being Detected
If you want to capture a disappearing photo or video in Instagram DMs without sending a notification, here are a few methods to try (use ethically!):
1. Airplane Mode Trick
- Open the DM with the disappearing content.
- Turn on Airplane Mode to disconnect from Wi-Fi and mobile data.
- Take the screenshot, then fully close the Instagram app before disabling Airplane Mode.
2. Screen Recording Method
- Use your phone’s built-in screen recorder to capture the disappearing photo or video.
- After recording, go back and trim the footage to save just the part you need.
3. Third-Party Apps (Proceed with Caution)
- Some external apps claim to bypass screenshot notifications, but they can be risky.
- These tools may compromise your privacy or violate Instagram’s terms, so use them at your own discretion.
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Final Thoughts
Instagram allows users to share content freely without sending notifications for screenshots in most cases. However, when it comes to Vanish mode and disappearing DMs, notifications are in place to protect user privacy.
For better privacy management, users can take advantage of Instagram’s built-in features like private accounts, Close Friends, and Instagram Collections instead of relying on screenshots.
FAQs About instagram screenshot notifications
Does Instagram notify when you screenshot a close friend story?
No, Instagram does not notify the creator when you screenshot a Close Friends story.
Does Instagram notify when you screenshot a DM?
Only if it contains disappearing photos/videos or if it is in Vanish mode.
How can you know if someone screenshots your Instagram story?
Currently, there is no way to know if someone takes a screenshot of your Instagram story.
Does Instagram notify when you screenshot a highlight?
No, Instagram does not notify users when you screenshot a highlight.
