Is There a Way to Turn off Read Receipts Instagram 2026
Instagram is one of the most popular social media apps in the world. Millions of people use it daily to chat, share reels, and stay connected. But one small feature can create big stress, and that feature is the “Seen” or read receipt.
Whenever you open a message, the sender instantly knows you have seen it. Sometimes this feels annoying, uncomfortable, or even stressful. You may not be ready to reply, but now the other person is waiting. This creates pressure.
So many users ask:
👉 How to turn off read receipts on Instagram?
What Are Read Receipts on Instagram? (Simple Meaning)
Read receipts are small indicators that tell the sender that:
✔ You opened their message
✔ You read the message
This is shown as “Seen” under the message.
While this feature sounds useful, it can also become problematic.
Why People Want To Turn Off Read Receipts (Real Reasons)
There are many strong and honest reasons.
1. Privacy Issues (Negative Side)
Some users don’t want others to know:
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When they are online
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When they read messages
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Why they didn’t reply instantly
This feels too intrusive.
2. Less Stress, More Freedom
When read receipts are off:
✔ No pressure to reply fast
✔ More control over conversations
✔ Peace of mind
This gives a relaxed and healthy experience.
3. Professional Boundaries
For business accounts or creators, instant replies are not always possible. Read receipts create unnecessary expectations.
How To Turn Off Read Receipts for All Instagram Chats
Instagram gives a very easy option to disable read receipts for all conversations at once.
Follow These Simple Steps:
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Open the Instagram app
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Go to your Profile page
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Tap the three lines (☰) at top right corner
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Select Settings and Privacy
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Scroll down to Messages and story replies
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Find Show read receipts
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Toggle it OFF
That’s it. Now people won’t see when you read their messages.
⚠ Sometimes app UI change little bit, but option is there.
What Happens After Turning Off Read Receipts?
Positive Effects
✔ More privacy
✔ Less anxiety
✔ You reply when ready
✔ No awkward moments
Negative Effects
❌ Others also won’t show read receipts to you
❌ Some people may think you ignored them
❌ Less transparency in chats
So yes, it’s powerful but not perfect.
How To Turn Off Read Receipts for Specific Instagram Chats
Sometimes you don’t want to disable read receipts for everyone. Maybe only for some specific people. Instagram gives this flexibility too.
This is very useful feature.
Steps To Disable Read Receipts for One Chat:
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Open Instagram
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Go to your DMs (tap message icon)
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Open the specific conversation
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Tap the person’s name at the top
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Select Privacy & Safety
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Toggle Read receipts OFF
Now only that person will not see “Seen”.
This is a smart and powerful control option.
Who Should Turn Off Read Receipts?
This feature is best for:
✔ Introvert users
✔ Busy professionals
✔ Content creators
✔ Business owners
✔ Anyone who values privacy
If you feel messaging pressure, this option is life-saving.
Who Should NOT Turn Off Read Receipts?
You may keep read receipts ON if:
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You chat with close friends
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You want fast replies
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You prefer transparency
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You manage customer support
For some users, read receipts are actually useful and positive.
Common Problems While Turning Off Read Receipts
Problem 1: Option Not Visible
➡ Update Instagram app
Problem 2: Setting Not Saving
➡ Restart app and try again
Problem 3: Still Showing Seen
➡ Wait few minutes, server delay sometimes happens
These issues are normal, no need panic.
Does Turning Off Read Receipts Affect Other Features?
No. Turning off read receipts:
✔ Does NOT block messages
✔ Does NOT affect stories
✔ Does NOT hide online status
It only hides the Seen indicator.
