Is Follow Meter Safe To Use For Your Instagram Account

Sep 8, 2025

If you’re considering using FollowMeter to check who unfollowed you on Instagram, you’re definitely not the only one. It’s a well-known tracking app, but let’s be real—just because something’s popular doesn’t make it safe. FollowMeter can put your account at risk of hacks, bans, or privacy breaches because it usually asks for your Instagram login and works in ways Instagram doesn’t approve of.

You should really know what you’re signing up for before you give away your account info. Most apps like FollowMeter pull data straight from your profile, which can break Instagram’s rules. That means you might lose access to your account out of nowhere.

There are better ways to keep tabs on unfollowers without putting your account in danger. FollowBuddy, for example, never asks for your Instagram password and sticks to Instagram’s guidelines, so you can get your info without the anxiety of bans or hacks. So, how does FollowMeter actually work? What are the risks? And what are the best alternatives to keep your account safe?

What Is Follow Meter?

Follow Meter is an Instagram analytics app that tracks changes in your followers. It shows you who unfollowed you, who isn’t following you back, and other account activity. People use it to manage their Instagram connections and keep an eye on engagement.

Overview of Features

Follow Meter gives you tools to monitor your Instagram followers and unfollowers. You get:

  • Recent unfollowers

  • Accounts not following you back

  • New followers

  • Engagement stats like likes and comments

The premium version unlocks extras like ghost follower detection and more advanced analytics.

But here’s the catch: to use Follow Meter, you have to log in with your Instagram username and password. That means the app gets direct access to your account. Sure, this lets it pull more data, but it also brings up some real privacy and safety worries.

Instagram limits what third-party apps can do with your data. Apps that need your login and scrape data from your account can get you temporarily or permanently banned. That’s why some people switch to safer options like FollowBuddy, which doesn’t ask for your Instagram password.

Supported Platforms

Follow Meter works on both iOS and Android. You can grab it from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.

It’s a mobile-only app—no desktop version. So if you want to use it, you’ll need a phone or tablet.

Updates come out every so often, but users say the app’s reliability can be hit or miss. Sometimes updates make things better, but other times they cause issues like bugs or login problems.

Because it relies on your Instagram login, Follow Meter might stop working if Instagram updates its API or security settings. That’s happened to similar apps before, sometimes leaving users with broken features or nothing at all.

User Demographics

Most of Follow Meter’s users are individual Instagram account holders, not businesses. Some are casual users who just want to keep their follower lists tidy. Others are influencers or content creators tracking their audience.

It’s especially popular with younger users who spend a lot of time on social media.

Some people use it out of curiosity, others to manage their online image. But because you have to hand over your login and risk your account, a lot of users eventually move to no-login tools like FollowBuddy for peace of mind.

How Follow Meter Works

Follow Meter connects to your Instagram account and scans for changes in your followers list. The way it works has big implications for your privacy and account security.

Account Connection Process

To start, you log in with your Instagram username and password—not through Instagram, but directly in the Follow Meter app.

That means you’re giving your credentials to the app, which then stores them so it can keep scanning your account. Honestly, this is risky because you’re sharing your password with a third party.

Instagram’s terms of service say you shouldn’t give your password to outside apps. If Instagram notices, you could get locked out or banned. Plenty of users have reported losing access after using trackers that require a direct login.

Bottom line: You have to hand over your Instagram credentials to use Follow Meter, which can put your account at risk.

Data Collection Methods

Follow Meter logs into your Instagram account as you, using your credentials to view your followers, following list, and activity.

It compares snapshots of your account over time to spot unfollows, new followers, and other changes. This usually involves scraping—the app scans your profile repeatedly to collect updates.

Scraping goes against Instagram’s platform rules. If Instagram sees too many scans or weird login locations, it might flag your account as suspicious. That’s why some users get sudden login alerts or security warnings.

Because the app has direct access, it can also see private info you wouldn’t normally share, like your messages, saved posts, and more.

Permissions Required

To work, Follow Meter needs full access to your Instagram account. That includes:

Permission

What It Allows

Login Access

Lets the app sign in as you.

Read Followers & Following

Tracks changes in your list.

View Profile Data

Reads your bio, posts, and story info.

Activity Access

Monitors likes, comments, and follows.

With these permissions, the app could, in theory, post, follow, or unfollow as you. That’s a lot of access for an analytics tool.

Privacy-focused tools like FollowBuddy skip all that—they don’t ask for your Instagram login. Instead, they use safe, approved methods and only collect the data you want to share.

Is Follow Meter Safe to Use?

Follow Meter helps you track Instagram followers and unfollowers, but it comes with risks. There are real concerns about privacy, account security, and whether it follows Instagram’s rules. Users have had mixed experiences—some end up with account restrictions after using it.

Privacy and Data Security

Using Follow Meter means logging in with your Instagram username and password. You’re giving a third-party app direct access to your account. Instagram warns against sharing your login outside its own platform, and for good reason.

Apps like this often use “data scraping” to grab info from your profile, which is against Instagram’s terms. If Instagram catches it, your account might get suspended—sometimes for good.

There’s also the worry about how your data is handled. Once you give access, you have no real way to know what the app does with your info.

A safer option is a tool like FollowBuddy. It never asks for your password and only uses approved data sources, so there’s no risk of a login breach.

Official App Store Status

Follow Meter shows up in major app stores, but that doesn’t automatically mean it’s safe. Being listed just means it passed basic app store checks, not that it follows Instagram’s policies.

Some apps manage to stay in stores for ages, even if they break Instagram’s rules. They just tweak a few features or change their descriptions.

If an app wants your Instagram login, that’s a red flag. Instagram’s API no longer supports password-based access for follower tracking. Approved tools use official connections and don’t need your credentials.

If you’re thinking about any Instagram unfollower tracker, check if it’s an Instagram Partner. If not, it’s probably working in a gray area that could put your account at risk.

User Reviews on Safety

User reviews for Follow Meter are all over the place. Some people say it works at first, but plenty of others mention sudden logouts, weird activity, or even temporary bans.

A lot of negative reviews mention the app stopped working after Instagram updated its security. That’s usually because the app depends on methods Instagram is trying to block.

You’ll also see complaints about surprise charges or features being locked behind a paywall. If you want the real story, check the latest reviews—not just the overall rating.

If you’d rather skip the drama, pick a privacy-first Instagram tool that follows Instagram’s rules. FollowBuddy tracks unfollowers without needing your password, letting you see changes without risking your account.

Potential Risks of Using FollowMeter

Apps like FollowMeter might seem like an easy way to see who unfollowed you on Instagram, but they can put your account, privacy, and even your device at risk. The risks come from how the app works and what it asks from you.

Account Security Concerns

FollowMeter asks for your Instagram username and password. You’re handing over your account credentials to a third party. Once you do that, you can’t control how your login is stored or used.

If the app’s servers get hacked, your account could be at risk. Hackers might change your password, lock you out, or use your account for spam.

Using these apps can also trigger Instagram’s security alerts. If Instagram spots a login from a weird location or device, it might lock your account until you prove it’s you. Not fun.

The safest Instagram unfollower trackers, like FollowBuddy, don’t ask for your login at all.

Violation of Platform Policies

Instagram’s rules are pretty clear: don’t give your login to unapproved apps. FollowMeter uses your credentials to scrape data from your account, which breaks those rules.

If Instagram notices, it might:

Possible Action by Instagram

What It Means for You

Temporary Ban

You can’t post, like, or follow for a set time.

Permanent Ban

Your account is deleted and can’t be recovered.

Shadowban

Your posts are hidden from non-followers.

Even one-time use can put your account at risk. Plenty of users have lost access after using similar tools.

Stick to tools that use Instagram-approved methods and you won’t have to worry about this stuff.

Malware and Phishing Risks

Some third-party apps sneak in harmful code, even if they’re in legit app stores. Once installed, malware can steal your data, track what you do, or install even more unwanted stuff.

Phishing is another risk. If FollowMeter sends you to a fake Instagram login, you might type in your credentials without realizing it’s a scam. Suddenly, someone else has full access to your account.

Watch out for these warning signs:

  • Asking for permissions that don’t match the app’s features

  • Sending you to sketchy websites

  • Pop-ups pushing weird offers or downloads

If you use a privacy-first Instagram unfollower tracker like FollowBuddy, you avoid these headaches because it never connects to your account.

Alternatives to Follow Meter

You’ve got better, safer ways to track Instagram activity without risking your account. Some options work inside Instagram itself, while others use approved methods that keep your info safe.

Official Analytics Tools

Instagram has built-in analytics called Instagram Insights. It’s free if you switch to a Business or Creator account. You’ll see follower counts, reach, engagement, and audience demographics.

These tools don’t tell you exactly who unfollowed you, but you get accurate, rule-compliant data straight from Instagram. No risk of bans or restrictions.

To use them, go to your profile settings, switch to a Business or Creator account, then check the Insights tab. You’ll see charts, percentages, and trends that update in real time.

Pros:

  • 100% safe and official

  • No login sharing with third-party apps

  • Free to use

Cons:

  • No specific unfollower list

  • Limited historical data

If you just want the big picture and zero risk, this is probably your best bet.

Trusted Third-Party Apps

Some third-party apps actually play by Instagram’s rules and never ask for your password. FollowBuddy is a decent example—it uses approved data to show who unfollowed you, and you don’t have to worry about risking your account.

Instead of logging into your account, it connects to Instagram’s public API. That means it skips the sketchy scraping tricks that can get you banned. Plus, since you don’t hand over your login, your personal info stays safer.

It’s got stuff like instant unfollower tracking, automated follower audits, and clear visual reports, so you can keep your follower list accurate without the headache. If you get stuck, there’s real human support, and honestly, the interface doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out.

What should you look for in a third-party app?

  • No password required

  • API-compliant

  • Transparent privacy policy

If some app asks for your Instagram login or promises “fast follower growth,” just skip it. That’s usually a red flag for risky practices.

Best Practices for Social Media Safety

Keeping your Instagram account safe means being picky about the apps you use and the info you share. Some tools put your account at risk by asking for your login or breaking Instagram’s rules, which can get you locked out.

Protecting Your Account

Use strong, unique passwords and change them regularly. Don’t use the same password everywhere. If someone cracks one, they could get into everything.

Turn on two-factor authentication (2FA). That way, even if someone has your password, they still need a code from your phone to log in.

Be picky with third-party apps. If something wants your Instagram username and password directly, that’s a bad sign. Apps that follow Instagram’s rules never need your password to track unfollowers or give analytics.

Check your account’s active logins in Instagram settings. If you spot devices or places you don’t recognize, log them out right away.

If you want to track unfollowers safely, pick a privacy-first tool like FollowBuddy—it doesn’t need your Instagram login and sticks to Instagram’s API rules.

Recognizing Unsafe Apps

Unsafe apps usually have the same warning signs:

Red Flag

Why It’s Risky

Asks for your Instagram password

Can lead to hacks or bans

Promises “instant growth”

Often uses fake or bot accounts

Not listed as Instagram-approved

Likely breaks Instagram’s rules

Lots of recent 1-star reviews

Users may have been banned

Before you download, check out recent reviews, not just the average rating. Fake reviews are everywhere, but real users usually leave warnings in the comments.

Steer clear of apps that “scrape” your account data. That breaks Instagram’s terms and can get your account restricted.

A safe IG tracker like FollowBuddy sticks to approved data and doesn’t put your account at risk. You keep control of your info and still get accurate unfollower tracking.

Frequently Asked Questions

A lot of Instagram tracking apps ask for your login, which can put your account and personal data in danger. Some tools also bend or break Instagram’s rules, leading to restrictions or outright bans. There are safer options, but you need to know what to look for before downloading anything.

What are the risks of using third-party apps like FollowMeter with Instagram?

When you give a third-party app your Instagram login, you’re handing over full access to your account.

These apps might store your password, scrape your data, or use automation that violates Instagram’s terms.

This can lead to hacked accounts, stolen personal info, or sudden restrictions on your profile.

Can using FollowMeter lead to an Instagram account ban?

Yes, it can.

FollowMeter and similar apps often use methods Instagram doesn’t allow, like automated data scraping.

If Instagram detects this, it can lock, restrict, or permanently ban your account.

How do users generally feel about the safety of FollowMeter based on Reddit discussions?

Reddit users seem pretty divided.

Some say it worked for them, but others share stories about sudden logouts, password resets, or even temporary bans.

The general vibe? Cautious, with plenty of warnings about giving away your login.

Is there any official approval from Instagram for apps like FollowMeter?

Nope.

Instagram doesn’t officially approve or endorse FollowMeter, nor does it grant it special permissions.

If an app isn’t listed as an official Instagram partner, it’s operating without direct approval.

Are there any safe ways to use FollowMeter for Instagram without compromising account security?

The only truly safe way is to use a tool that doesn’t require your Instagram login.

For example, FollowBuddy lets you track unfollowers without entering your password, keeping your account safer.

If you absolutely have to use FollowMeter, just know you’re taking on the risk of handing over your credentials.

What should I consider before downloading a modded APK for FollowMeter?

Modded APKs are basically tweaked versions of the original app.

Sometimes they hide malware, spyware, or sneaky code that grabs your login info.

Honestly, if you want to dodge those headaches, you’re better off with official app stores or safer IG tracker tools like FollowBuddy—especially since it doesn’t even ask for your Instagram login.

© 2025 FollowBuddy, Inc. All rights reserved.

Disclaimer: FollowBuddy is not affiliated with Instagram™ or Meta Platforms Inc.

© 2025 FollowBuddy, Inc. All rights reserved.

Disclaimer: FollowBuddy is not affiliated with Instagram™ or Meta Platforms Inc.

© 2025 FollowBuddy, Inc. All rights reserved.

Disclaimer: FollowBuddy is not affiliated with Instagram™ or Meta Platforms Inc.