Instagram Stories are one of the platform’s most popular features — perfect for sharing quick updates, behind‑the‑scenes moments, or limited‑time offers. But a question that keeps coming up is: Will Instagram tell someone if you screenshot their Story? Let’s break it down. The Short Answer
No Instagram does not currently notify users when you screenshot a Story2. You can take a screenshot of any public or private Story you can view, and the person who posted it will not receive an alert.
This also applies to:
Posts (photos and videos in the feed)
Reels
Most direct messages (with some exceptions — see below)
The Exceptions You Should Know
While Stories are safe to screenshot without detection, there are situations where Instagram will send a notification:
Situation Will Instagram Notify? Notes
Disappearing photos/videos in DMs ✅ Yes Sent using the in‑chat camera with “View Once” or “Allow Replay” options. Vanish Mode chats ✅ Yes If you screenshot a conversation in Vanish Mode, both parties see a notification. Regular DMs with gallery images ❌ No Photos sent from your gallery in a normal chat can be screenshotted without alerts. Stories, posts, Reels ❌ No No notifications are sent for screenshots or screen recordings.
A Quick History of Story Screenshot Alerts
2018 Test: Instagram briefly tested Story screenshot notifications, similar to Snapchat. Users saw warning pop‑ups, but the feature was removed after a short trial. Since Then: No Story screenshot alerts have been reintroduced. Tips for Privacy & Etiquette
Even though Instagram won’t “snitch” on you for Story screenshots, it’s still good practice to:
Respect the creator’s content and privacy. Avoid reposting without permission.
Use screenshots for personal reference, research, or inspiration — not for misuse. Final Takeaway
You can screenshot Instagram Stories without the other person knowing. The only times Instagram sends a screenshot notification are in specific private messaging scenarios — disappearing media and Vanish Mode chats.
