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Instagram API Limitations

Understand the restrictions set by Instagram's API and how they may affect your automations.

Lihat.ai relies on the official Instagram Graph API (owned by Meta) to perform actions like sending automated DMs, retrieving comments, and managing IG accounts.

While powerful, this API comes with built-in limitations that are designed to prevent spam and protect user privacy. Knowing these limitations will help you set realistic expectations and avoid errors.

Key Limitations to Know

1. Daily DM Sending Limits

  • Each connected Instagram account has a limit on how many automated DMs can be sent per day.
  • The exact number is not officially published, but most business accounts are safe sending 50–100 automated DMs/day.
  • If this limit is exceeded, Lihat.ai will stop sending DMs for that account until the next 24-hour reset window.
📌 Tip: Spread automations across multiple posts or stagger campaigns over multiple days.

2. Only Works with Professional Accounts

The API only supports:

  • Business Accounts
  • Creator Accounts

Personal Instagram accounts cannot use DM automation or comment triggers. If you attempt to connect one, it will fail or result in limited functionality.

3. Requires Connection to Facebook Page

Every IG professional account must be linked to a Facebook Page.
Without this, Instagram API access will not be granted and automations will not work.

4. Keyword Detection May Be Delayed

In rare cases, there might be a short delay between when a user comments and when the keyword trigger is detected.

This can be caused by:

  • Instagram queue latency
  • API rate limits during high traffic hours
  • Temporary sync issues (usually auto-resolve within minutes)

5. Restricted User Actions

Instagram's API cannot:

  • Auto-like comments
  • Follow users on your behalf
  • Send DMs to users who’ve never interacted with your content (cold DMs)

You may only send automated DMs after someone has commented or messaged you first, in accordance with Meta’s messaging policies.

6. No Automation in Direct Messages (DM Inbox)

At this time, Lihat.ai cannot scan or reply to incoming DMs via automation (unless it's a keyword trigger in comments or replies). This is due to IG limitations.


Why These Limits Exist

Instagram enforces these limits to:

  • Prevent spam and misuse
  • Protect user data and consent
  • Maintain platform quality

All third-party platforms — including Lihat.ai — must follow these rules to remain compliant and avoid account restrictions or bans.

Best Practices

  • Monitor your DM usage daily
  • Avoid sending mass automations all at once
  • Use keywords and buttons to keep user interaction natural
  • Educate your followers on how to trigger automation (e.g., “Comment INFO to get details”)
  • Use multiple IG accounts if you’re running high-volume campaigns

Still Confused?

If you’re unsure whether an issue is due to Instagram limitations or a platform bug, contact us at biz@lihat.ai and we’ll help troubleshoot.