Direct answer first: Instagram DMs not opening can happen due to connectivity issues, app glitches, outdated or corrupted app data, or temporary server problems on Instagram’s side. Try these steps in order and see if any resolve the issue.
Quick fixes
- Check your internet: switch between Wi-Fi and mobile data to test. A weak or unstable connection often causes DMs to fail to load.
- Restart Instagram: close the app completely (remove it from recent apps) and reopen it. If you’re on Android, you can force stop and reopen.
- Update the app: go to your device’s app store and install the latest Instagram update. App updates often fix bugs that block DMs from loading.
- Clear cache (Android) or offload/reinstall (iOS):
- Android: Settings > Apps > Instagram > Storage > Clear Cache.
- iOS: Settings > General > iPhone Storage > Instagram > Offload App, then reinstall.
- Log out and back in: sign out of Instagram, close the app, then sign back in.
- Check for outages: verify whether Instagram is experiencing a known outage in your region (carrier/ISP disruptions can also affect connectivity).
- Disable VPN or ad-blockers: some network tools interfere with app services.
- Reboot device: a full device restart can clear temporary network or OS issues.
If it still won’t load
- Reinstall the app: delete Instagram from your device and install a fresh copy from the store.
- Check account permissions: ensure the app has necessary permissions (storage, notifications, network) in your device settings.
- Try another device: sign in on a different phone or tablet to see if the problem is account-specific or device-specific.
- Review blocked/inbox settings: if you can access some messages but not others, check whether you’ve been blocked by a contact or if message requests are filtered.
When to seek help
- If none of the above works, contact Instagram Support through your account Help Center or report a problem from Settings > Help > Report a Problem. Include details like device model, OS version, Instagram version, and a brief description of what’s happening.
If you can share any specifics (your device, OS, Instagram version, whether messages fail for all contacts or just one, and any error messages), the next steps can be tailored more precisely.
