A Shadowban is when Instagram blocks a user’s hashtag feature meaning that only profiles that are following them will be able to see their posts. Shadowbanning happens when a user does not comply with Instagram’s content rules.
This feature is in place mainly to try and prevent users from seeing content from spammy accounts or automation bots. Although Instagram has never openly admitted to shadowbanning profiles, they have released statements telling users to be creative, authentic, and have a distinct visual presence.
How do you know if you are placed on a Shadowban?
Most users won’t even know they are on a Shadowban and there is not a way to find out from Instagram. But there is a simple trick you can try to see if you are. Choose a hashtag that isn’t commonly used. Post content using that one hashtag and then ask a user that is not following you to search for the hashtag, if they cannot see your post then you have been shadowbanned.