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Instagram Surveys Users on Paid Engagement Options

Social Media News
Purva January 13, 2025 4 min read

What if I told you that soon you might be able to buy your way to Instagram fame?

According to recent reports, it seems like Instagram is considering a big change by offering users a chance to pay for engagement.

Recently, the platform sent out surveys to selected users, asking them about their interest in paid engagement options.

What’s in the Survey?

The survey includes some intriguing hypothetical packages.

For example, one option suggests that for $150, users could gain 600 followers and 2,000 messages. Another package priced at $1,150 offers even more engagement.

Screenshot of Instagram Qualtrics survey sent out to understand how much a user would be willing to pay for more engagement.
Source: SocialMediaToday

These options suggest Instagram might roll out paid engagement features, similar to how ads work, but aimed specifically at growing visibility and interactions. This could be particularly appealing for creators and brands who want to stand out in a crowded space.

Is Meta Planning a Shift in Content Distribution Strategy?

Here’s where it gets interesting—Meta, Instagram’s parent company, has always been against paying for fake followers or likes. In fact, they’ve sued third-party services offering fake engagement in the past.

As per their guidelines, they don’t allow inauthentic distribution, engagement, audience building, and similar deceptions. (Check out the attached screenshot below!)

Screenshot of Meta's community guidelines highlighting their stance against paid engagement.

So why the change?

This potential move might be part of the Meta Verified program, which already offers perks like better visibility and account protection for a subscription fee. By adding engagement packages, Instagram could tap into creators’ need for growth in a more controlled and ethical way.

In long run, Instagram wants to be the ultimate destination for influencers and brands. Paid engagement options could be the next step in this strategy, helping users amplify their reach without relying on shady third-party services.

What Does This Mean for You?

If Instagram rolls out these features, it could mean more transparency in how creators grow their accounts.

Instead of risking bans by using fake engagement services, users might have a safer, platform-approved option.

However, it also raises concerns—will this make Instagram a pay-to-win game? And how will this affect smaller creators who can’t afford to pay?

ALSO READ: Meta Plans to Bring AI Bot Profiles to Facebook & Instagram in 2025

About the Author

Purva

Purva is part of the content team at Vaizle, where she focuses on delivering insightful and engaging content. When not chronically online, you will find her taking long walks, adding another book to her TBR list, or watching rom-coms.

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