How to Export Instagram Followers and Following Data

To check non-followers without logging into a third-party tool, you first need a fresh Instagram export. The export process changes slightly over time, but the goal is the same: download the follower and following data in JSON format, then use that zip file for comparison.

Before You Start

Use the Instagram account you want to review. Make sure you can receive email from Instagram, because the download link usually arrives by email or through the account center. If you manage multiple accounts, double-check the active account before requesting the export.

Mobile Workflow

1. Open Instagram and go to your profile.
2. Open the menu and go to Settings and privacy.
3. Open Account Center.
4. Choose Your information and permissions.
5. Select the option to export or download your information.
6. Choose the account you want to export.
7. Select followers and following data if Instagram lets you customize the export.
8. Choose JSON as the format.
9. Submit the request and wait for Instagram to prepare the file.

Desktop Workflow

On desktop, sign in at instagram.com, open settings, and look for Account Center or your information controls. The labels may differ by region, but the request should lead to an export option. Choose JSON and include followers and following. If Instagram offers a date range, choose all time so the following list is complete.

When the File Arrives

Instagram may take minutes or hours to prepare the export. Download the zip file when it is ready. Do not rename individual files inside it and do not remove folders. For UnfollowerSpy, you can upload the zip file as-is. The tool searches the archive for the relevant JSON files and compares the lists in your browser.

Troubleshooting

• If the checker cannot find data, request a new export and confirm JSON format.
• If your result looks too small, the export may not include followers and following.
• If the download link expired, return to Instagram and request a new file.
• If you recently followed or unfollowed many accounts, request a fresh export before auditing.

Why You Should Export Only What You Need

A full Instagram archive can contain far more than a follower audit requires. If Instagram gives you a choice, select only the follower and following categories. This keeps the zip file smaller and avoids handling unrelated account history such as messages, media references, or other personal records.

That smaller export is also easier to troubleshoot. When a file contains only the relevant lists, it is clearer whether the export was created correctly and whether the checker has the information it needs.

Keep the Zip File Private

Even when a tool processes locally, the export itself is still your data. Avoid sending it through email or chat unless you understand exactly what is inside. If you need help debugging, share a small redacted example rather than the full archive.

After the Audit

Your export is private account data. Store it only as long as you need it. After reviewing your results, consider deleting the zip from shared computers, downloads folders, and cloud sync locations you do not actively manage.