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How To View Instagram Stories Without Them Knowing: Step-by-Step Guide

How To View Instagram Stories Without Them Knowing

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You’d rather they didn’t know about it, but how to view Instagram Stories without them knowing?

Likely, you’re not alone! Who knows, they may be doing the same to you, eh?

Let’s begin by discussing how to view Instagram stories without them knowing.

How to read Instagram stories without them knowing' is written over a picture of a hand holding a smartphone on a pink background.

Let’s go through different ways you can sneak a peek at these stories without leaving a trace on their view list. Think of it as being a secret IG viewer, where you get to see all the active stories without them knowing. But how?

I’ll walk you through how to view Instagram stories without them knowing each step by step, so don’t worry!

Now that you have your mobile phone in hand, let’s explore the realm of anonymous Instagram story-watching.

Using a web browser instead of the official Instagram app can sometimes be a good way to watch Instagram stories anonymously, especially for public Instagram accounts. This method offers an essential tool for those wanting to avoid detection without installing any apps.

Modern browsers often support features like private/incognito mode, which complements anonymous viewing of Instagram stories by minimizing your digital footprint. This is a straightforward way to avoid being tracked while browsing.

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Key Takeaways

  • What people post on Instagram Stories can only be seen for 24 hours.
  • If someone makes a story, they can see who has seen it. But there are ways on how to view Instagram stories without them knowing
  • You should be careful when using these methods and know that they could lead to violations of privacy concerns.
  • Understanding your IP address and how Instagram tracks instagram story views in real time can help you better utilize foolproof reliable methods to remain anonymous.

Using third-party tools is a popular approach, but always ensure you use a free service or paid option that respects your personal data and privacy.

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How To View Instagram Stories Without Them Knowing?

There are a few ways on how to view Instagram stories without them knowing.

Here are some hacks for you:

Whether it’s checking out someone’s latest escapades or getting a preview of their Instagram highlights without making it awkward, I’ve got you covered. Let’s break down the different methods to become an Instagram ninja, all from your mobile phone.

#1. Use Airplane Mode

How to View Instagram Stories Without Them Knowing - A smartphone showing a control center with various icons for settings like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and Flight Mode.

Step 1: Open Instagram

First things first, grab your phone and open Instagram. This is, hands down, the easiest way to start your undercover mission. Scrolling through your Instagram feed might give you a glance at what you’re looking for, but let’s go deeper.

Step 2: Wait for Stories to Load

Found a new story at the top of the screen you’re itching to see? Let it load. This might take a few seconds, depending on your internet connection. This anticipation is all part of the thrill.

Step 3: View the Story

Go back to Instagram and view the story. Since you’re offline, you won’t show up in the insta Stories viewer list of viewers, keeping your visit a secret. Remember, any actions you take now won’t be registered until you go online again.

Step 4: Close and Clear

Once you’re done, make sure to close Instagram before turning off Airplane Mode to ensure your visit remains anonymous. It’s the digital equivalent of leaving no footprints.

This method is a simple step and effective method for anyone wanting to remain an anonymous story viewer without needing extra tools or accounts.

Using Airplane Mode is one of the easy methods that requires no additional setup or apps, making it a best option for quick, instant viewing.

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#2. Create a Secondary Instagram Account

How to View Instagram Stories Without Them Knowing - A smartphone with a screen to create a username, showing a keyboard and a text field to crreate a new Instagram account.

Step 1: Sign Up for a New Instagram Account

Open Instagram and log out of your account. Tap on “Sign up” and create a new account using a new email or phone number. This is your undercover ID, so maybe don’t use your usual selfie as the profile picture.

Step 2: Craft Your Alias

Set up your Instagram profile in a way that doesn’t scream “I’m here for snooping.” Follow a few accounts, post a couple of pictures, and maybe sprinkle in some likes here and there. Blend in.

Step 3: Start Following

Use the search bar located at the top of the screen to locate the username of the Instagram account that catches your attention. Send a follow request if needed. This step requires patience, as you wait to be accepted.

Step 4: Enjoy Anonymous Viewing

Once you’re in, you now know how to view Instagram stories without them knowing. Just remember, with a different Instagram account, you’re a ghost – invisible and silent.

Creating a fake account or anonymous account is a perfect way to keep your true identity hidden while watching stories, especially from a business account or a content creator you want to follow discreetly.

An additional Instagram account or different Instagram account helps maintain your secret identity while keeping tabs on future posts and stories.

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#3. Leveraging Third Party App

A smartphone displaying a search for Instagram story saver apps in an app store.

Step 1: Choose Your Tool

This is the last method and involves a bit of research. Look for licensed software or third-party tools among third-party services dedicated to anonymous viewing of Instagram stories on social media platforms. Be sure to pick a reliable and secure service to protect your own privacy.

Step 2: Enter the Instagram Username

Most of these services just require the username of the Instagram account you want to check out. Paste it into the search bar, and let the tool do its magic.

Step 3: View Content Anonymously

You’ll be able to view stories, story highlights, and even live broadcasts without ever logging into your account. This method is a great choice for a no-trace approach, especially for public Instagram accounts.

Using third-party tools to download stories or watch Instagram stories anonymously can provide valuable insights for social media managers and content creators looking to analyze competitors’ stories as part of their Instagram strategy.

Some official anonymous Instagram story viewer websites and anonymous Instagram story viewer apps offer jpeg format downloads of stories, making it easier to save or share content discreetly.

Each of these methods on how to view Instagram stories without them knowing offers a valuable tool in your arsenal for navigating the social waters of Instagram anonymously. Whether you choose the quick and easy path of Airplane Mode, the deeper dive of managing a different account, or the external capabilities of third-party apps, remember to use these powers wisely. 

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Instagram Stories And What They Are

Stories is an Instagram feature that allows users to post short video and photos that disappear after a day.

Anyone who follows the account can see Instagram Stories, which are shown at the top of the user’s page.

A screenshot of instagram stories on instagram feed

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Public vs. Private Accounts

First off, Instagram profiles can be either public or private account, and this makes a big difference on how to view Instagram stories without them knowing and how you interact with their content. 

Public accounts are like an open book; anyone with internet access can view their Instagram content, including their user stories and highlights. It’s a bit like TikTok – make a profile, and the world can see what you post. This openness makes public stories a breeze to check out, whether through your personal account or even anonymously.

On the flip side, private accounts are more like locked diaries. You need to follow them (and get approval) to see anything beyond their profile page. This includes their stories, which means anonymous Instagram story viewers might find it challenging to sneak a peek without being noticed.

For private stories, the best option is often using a different Instagram account or requesting to join their close friends list, as third-party tools rarely work with private content due to privacy restrictions.

For private account viewer needs, using a secondary account or requesting to join their close friends list can be the best way to gain access without raising suspicion.

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Respecting User Privacy

It’s important to follow other people’s Instagram data policies as a responsible user. Now that you learn how to view Instagram Stories without them knowing, so viewing someone else’s tale without that person’s knowledge or approval may be considered a privacy violation. Ensure you are not infringing on anyone’s rights and that you have a valid reason for clandestinely viewing their story.

Furthermore, when you view Instagram stories anonymously, you should be mindful of the private information you are disclosing to outside third-party tools or apps.

To make sure you are comfortable with the information these services collect and how it is used, always make sure you read and comprehend their terms and conditions completely.

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Adhering to Instagram’s Policies

Instagram enforces strict privacy policy rules for both its platform and its users. Breaking these policies may result in criminal penalties and additional legal repercussions. Therefore, it is crucial to make sure you are following Instagram’s guidelines when watching stories from unknown sources.


Using apps or services that violate Instagram’s terms of service or standards, such as third-party tools, is not allowed. If you utilize these services to read stories anonymously, your account could face suspension or be banned.


You should keep up with the latest rules and regulations to ensure that you are making the right and legal use of the site.

Lastly, always remember that Instagram reserves the right to change its policies at any time.

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Instagram stories of laurachouette

Wrapping Up

We’ve gone through the nifty ways to watch IG stories without being spotted. 

Armed with these easy hacks, you’re all set to explore people’s Instagram stories.

Now you know how to view Instagram Stories without them knowing! 

By following these simple steps and following steps carefully, you can maintain your instagram presence while respecting others’ privacy and Instagram’s policies.

Remember, every time you view a story, Instagram records your digital footprint in the list of people who viewed it, so use these clever ways responsibly.

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