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Threat Monitoring - Instagram Profile Takedown Guide

Use this guide to get an impersonating or IP-infringing Instagram profile removed. It covers the evidence to gather, where to file reports, and how to follow up and escalate

1) Gather Evidence (before you file)

  • Profile URL (open the profile, copy the address bar link) and exact @username.
  • Screenshots of the bio/name/logo and any “official” claims; include date/time.
  • Any external link in the bio (expand short links) and why it’s deceptive or infringing.
  • Your official references: company website, verified social accounts, support contacts.
  • IP proof (if applicable): trademark registration details or copyright ownership of misused material.

2) Report the Profile in the Instagram App (Impersonation)

  1. Open the offending profile in the Instagram app.
  2. Tap ⋯ (iOS) or ⋮ (Android) → Report.
  3. Select Report account → It’s pretending to be someone else → choose the best match (business/organization).
  4. Provide a short note and paste links to your official site/accounts to show the real brand presence.

Reference: Instagram Help Center — reporting accounts/content.

3) File a Formal IP Complaint with Meta (optional but recommended for IP)

  • Trademark infringement: submit Meta’s trademark report (covers Instagram). Include registration number and confusion evidence.
    Trademark Report Form
  • Copyright infringement: if your owned images/logo/text are used, file a copyright report.
    Copyright Report Form
  • Brand Rights Protection (program): for ongoing enforcement across Instagram/Facebook.
    Brand Rights Protection

4) What to Include in Your Submission

  • A clear statement: “This Instagram profile is impersonating our brand and misleading users.”
  • Official references: homepage URL and links to verified/official accounts.
  • Exact infringing URL(s): the profile link and any domain(s) shown in the bio.
  • Screenshots with handle visible, date/time, and deceptive elements highlighted.
  • Authorized contact details and an accuracy declaration (as requested by the form).

5) After You Submit

  • Save the confirmation/case ID from the in-app report or IP form.
  • Reply quickly to any Meta follow-ups; provide clearer side-by-side comparisons if asked.
  • Use both the in-app impersonation report and an IP complaint when the profile misuses trademarks or copyrighted assets.

6) Escalation & Follow-Up

  • Re-file with stronger confusion evidence (customer complaints, diverted traffic, look-alike domains).
  • Enroll in Brand Rights Protection to streamline future removals.
  • Coordinate with legal counsel to send a formal notice referencing trademark/copyright and Meta policy.
  • If the account also posts scams or repeats violations, pursue both profile removal and specific post removals (see our separate post takedown guide).

Sources & Official References