Instagram users across the globe were left frustrated after a recent update triggered a glitch that made the platform nearly unusable. The issue began when a message popped up asking users to change their ad settings — but the prompt couldn’t be closed, leaving many stuck on the home screen and unable to access the app as usual. This glitch follows a series of experimental changes by the Meta-owned app, including tweaks to photo grid sizes and story placements. Despite widespread complaints, Meta is yet to issue an official response or explanation.

The issue began with a banner at the top of the screen that read, “You have a say in ads you see," intended to help users customise their ad preferences. However, things went awry when users tried to close the message — many found themselves unable to return to the main interface, getting stuck on the home screen and effectively locked out of the app’s usual functions.

A user complaining about the issue on X (Formerly known as Twitter) wrote, “What is going on with Meta? I have a say in the ads on Instagram and I cannot choose to not allow Meta to see my activity? If I press MANAGE Choices and do not allow it, this shows up again and again and again Instagram Meta I don’t want to allow it, please make it possible."

Here are a few easy things you can do to fix the Instagram glitch:

Close and Reopen the App – Fully shut down Instagram by removing it from your recent apps, then relaunch it. This often resolves minor bugs.

Change Ad Settings – Go to your profile and tap the three lines. Open Settings and Privacy, then go to Accounts Center, Ad Preferences, and Ad Settings. Under Activity information from ad partners, tap Review setting, select “No, don’t make my ads more relevant," then save and check if the pop-up disappears.

Use a Browser Instead of the App – Open Instagram in Chrome, Safari or any browser. Go to Settings, Accounts Center, Ad Preferences and Turn off personalised ads. Log out and try using the app again.

Clear App Cache – Android users can go to Settings, Apps, Instagram, Storage and Clear Cache. If you’re an iPhone user, you’ll need to uninstall the app, and then reinstall it.

Update the App – Head to the App Store or Google Play Store, check for updates, and install if available.

Uninstall and Reinstall – Delete the app completely, restart your phone, and then reinstall Instagram. This resets the app and may resolve the issue.