Before you automate
Reviewed 27 September 2026. These summaries cover Reflect’s Instagram Login integration. Meta can change its rules; use the official links below for current requirements.
This page provides guidance. It does not enable additional protection controls or guarantee that an account cannot be restricted. Other channels have their own policies.
API rate limits
Limits apply per Instagram professional account and API category. They are technical ceilings, not a guarantee against spam restrictions.
- Private replies to post and reel comments: 750 calls per hour.
- Private replies to Live comments: 100 calls per second.
- Instagram Platform text, links, reactions, and stickers: 100 calls per second; audio/video: 10 calls per second.
- Conversations API: 2 calls per second. Pause requests when throttled and follow Meta’s recovery guidance.
Comment-to-DM and follow-ups
A comment permits one initial private reply. It does not permit an uninterrupted automated message sequence.
- Send the initial private reply within seven days of a post or reel comment.
- Send further messages only after the recipient responds, and within 24 hours of that response.
- An automation’s timer does not extend Instagram’s messaging window.
Instagram Live replies
Private replies to Live comments are allowed only during the live broadcast.
- Stop private replies when the broadcast ends, including replies waiting in a queue.
- A recent comment timestamp alone does not establish that the broadcast is still active.
Spam prevention
Excessive activity, repetitive content, and deceptive behavior can lead to restrictions even below an API rate limit.
- Keep replies relevant to the interaction and avoid repeated unwanted messages.
- Do not use misleading links or require likes, shares, or follows to unlock promised content.
- Do not attempt to bypass restrictions by switching accounts, tokens, or tools.
Consent and unwanted contact
Instagram prohibits repeatedly contacting people for commercial purposes without their consent.
- A follower count is not permission to bulk-message followers.
- Respect requests to stop. Treat opt-out suppression as a required safeguard for your workflows.
Account restrictions and suspension
Instagram may restrict or disable access for policy violations. Official API access does not exempt an account from enforcement.
- Use authorized connections and comply with Meta’s platform controls.
- There is no guaranteed ban-proof sending volume. If access is restricted, pause sending and review the account’s status through Instagram.