How to Watch Instagram Live Anonymously
One day, you're scrolling through Instagram when you see someone you follow having a live session.
For some reason, you want to join in but you don’t want that person to know that you are watching their live broadcast.
Sadly, Instagram does not have an option that allows users to watch IG live anonymously.
Every time someone new joins an Instagram live, both the host and the viewers are getting notified.
While it might seem like a bummer for those hoping to view Instagram live anonymously; there are a few simple ways to work around this.
Does Instagram Live tell you who's watching?
Yes.
Users are able to see who is viewing their Instagram live videos.
A small counter with an "eye" icon shows you how many people are watching someone’s live video.
By tapping the “eye” icon, users can see all the usernames of the people who have joined their live broadcast.
How to watch Instagram live without them knowing
As we previously mentioned, there is currently no native feature that allows users to remain anonymous when watching live videos broadcast by people they follow.
There are, however, a few simple solutions that can hide users’ identities while watching someone’s live stream.
1. Create a new Instagram profile
One way to watch someone’s Instagram live video anonymously is by creating a new account, or so-called ‘Finsta’ (fake Instagram account).
You can create your new Instagram account by using the same email address or phone number you have registered your “real” Instagram account with.
- Tap Sign Up With Email or Phone Number (Android) or Create New Account (iPhone).
- Enter your email address or phone number and tap Next.
- Create a username and password, fill out your profile info, and then tap Next
To stay anonymous, don’t register with your Facebook profile.
Bonus: How to remove 'Discover People' and 'Suggested for you' on Instagram
2. Change your username and profile picture
If creating a new Instagram account is too much hassle, changing your username and profile picture is a quicker way of hiding your identity.
Keep in mind that if the person you are watching, who is live checks your profile, they will be able to see your pictures and images you have shared.
- Go to your Instagram Profile Section.
- Tap on ‘Edit Profile’.
- Type in the New Username.
- Click on the 'Done' in the top right corner to save the changes.
✅ If you find this guide helpful, make sure to check our article on how to turn off Instagram live comments as well.
3. Use your friends’ and family members’ accounts
Another way to watch someone’s Instagram story without them knowing is by using someone else’s account.
This way, the person who is broadcasting a live video on Instagram will see the account you are using but they won't know it's you.
Check also how to save a photo or video from Instagram Chat.
4. Watch Video After they Upload on their Instagram Feed
Almost all users tend to share their live videos on their Instagram Feeds.
Once users share their broadcasts on their Feed, you can watch them anonymously. This way, you won’t need a new account to watch their stories, nor borrow someone else's.
Live broadcast replies won’t include comments or likes from the original likes. The number of viewers will restart once users share their replay.
Bonus: How to find 'Advanced Settings' on Instagram
Wrapping Up
As for now, the social media platform does not offer a built-in option that enables users to watch live stories anonymously.
Users can only try some of the mentioned workarounds to view someone's Instagram live anonymously.
