Instagram is a popular platform for connecting with friends, but it can also expose users—especially kids and teens—to harmful content. From explicit language and violent content to inappropriate messages from strangers, the direct messages (DMs) feature can sometimes be a gateway to unsafe interactions.
While chats between friends might seem harmless, unsolicited messages from unknown users can pose serious risks. That’s why understanding how to view someone’s Instagram DMs can be crucial for protecting loved ones, particularly children, from online dangers.
Understanding the Legal Boundaries
Before diving into how to check someone’s Instagram DMs, it’s important to recognize the legal and ethical implications. In many regions, parents are legally allowed to monitor their underage children’s devices if they are under 18 and live at home. This helps ensure their safety and well-being online.
You can also use special tools and methods to check an adult’s DMs, but only with their full awareness and direct consent. Responsible monitoring helps keep transparency while ensuring digital safety.
Table Of Contents
5 Methods for Monitoring Instagram Direct Messages
Method #1: Use Monitoring Apps (e.g., Eyezy)
So, you want to know how to monitor Instagram direct messages but don’t want them to find out? A monitoring app like Eyezy can be the right choice. And the best part is you can do it remotely without the need to grab their phone or stand behind their shoulder.
Once you get Eyezy, everyone will be asking you how to read someone’s Instagram messages. And the answer is as simple as firing up your Eyezy Control Panel on your favorite device.
Once logged in, you’ll see every single one of their Instagram chats. That includes the messages they’ve sent and received, along with any media, like pics and videos.
Their conversations are there for you to scroll through, complete with date and time stamps, so you’ll know when they said it. It really is your own private gateway to their Instagram.
And it doesn’t end with Instagram. Eyezy lets you see their chats on other social platforms, like Facebook Messenger, Snapchat, WhatsApp, and even Tinder. So, no matter where they chat, you’ll have access to it all.
How can parents view messages on Instagram so easily? That’s the magic of Eyezy. It includes some of the most advanced technology on the market, designed to help parents rest a little easier.
Method #2: Reset Their Password
If you know their email address and have access to their inbox, you can ask Instagram to reset their password. Of course, using this method to solve how to see someone else’s direct messages on Instagram requires that you know their email account password.
If you’re good to go, simply go to the Instagram website or open the Instagram app on any device. Then, click the Forgot Password link. From here, you’ll need to enter their email, phone number, or username. Instagram will then send out the password reset link.
Now that you know how to find out who someone is messaging on Instagram using the password reset method, it’s important to understand that using this method could lock them out of their Instagram account. What’s more, they may be notified in the app that their password has been changed.
Method #3: Restore From Backup
If you ever purchased a new iPhone, you know how easy it is to get your new phone working just like your old one. With the built-in restore feature, you can mirror everything from your old phone to your new device. And can be an easy way to get into their Instagram account.
Make sure they have Instagram included in their backup for this method to work. And keep in mind that in some cases, you may be asked to log in to certain apps again (Instagram seems to be hit and miss).
Android has similar functionality, so you can stop asking yourself how to see someone else’s DMs on Instagram if you like this method. Just restore, and you should be good to go.
One caveat to note here. On iPhone, they’ll receive a message saying that their iCloud ID is being used on another device. The same type of alert also exists on Android. So if you don’t want them to know that you’re using an app to monitor Instagram messages, consider another solution.
Method #4: Check Linked Devices on Instagram
Instagram allows users to view all devices where their account is logged in. If you can access the person’s account (with consent), you can check connected devices and monitor activity.
How to Check:
- Open Instagram and go to Settings.
- Select Security > Login Activity.
- View the list of logged-in devices and their locations.
By logging into the account from another device, you can indirectly access their DMs. This method requires knowing the account credentials and should only be used with permission to avoid violating privacy.
Method #5: Use Keylogger Software
Keyloggers record every keystroke made on a device, capturing login credentials and message content, including Instagram DMs. Apps like mSpy or Eyezy offer keylogging features that can provide access to conversations without the target user’s knowledge.
Once installed, keyloggers log all typed messages and store them in a dashboard accessible to you. This method requires physical access to the device for installation and should be used cautiously to avoid breaching legal boundaries. It’s important to inform the person being monitored if required by law in your region.
How to Stop Someone from Checking Your DMs
Now you know that there are quite different methods to get into Instagram messages. These can be useful if you’re a parent or a partner who wants to check in on your loved ones. But it also means other people can do the same with your chats. If you want to avoid this, there are steps you can take to protect your privacy:
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA): This adds an extra layer of security, keeping others from logging in without your approval.
- Update your password regularly: Don’t include your personal details in your password, and make it unique and strong by using numbers and special symbols.
- Log out of sharing devices: Always sign out if you use Instagram on a public or shared device.
- Turn off message previews: This helps to keep your DMs private on your device screen.
These simple changes can go a long way in protecting your conversations.
Eyezy Can Do Even More Than Show You Their Chats
Eyezy contains a suite of features designed to help parents keep tabs on their kids. With Magic Alerts, you’ll be notified if they use a controversial word in chat and receive notifications when they arrive or leave a location of your choice. And with Files Finder, you can see everything on their phone.
There are other unique features like Web Magnifier, which shows you where they’ve surfed, and Plans Breaker, which lets you into their social calendar. So if you want to keep them safe and be confident that they’re using their phone responsibly, check out Eyezy. You’ll be glad you did.
Can I download the app on my own device and view there direct messages from my device.
Good day! Of course, you can do that. If you require any further information, please feel free to contact our support team.
Are Instagram voice messages (audios) logged too?
Hello.
Thank you for your question.
It is possible with root of the device.