Why Does Instagram Say “This Story Is Unavailable” – What To Do?

If you’ve ever tapped on an Instagram story and suddenly seen the message “This Story Is Unavailable,” you’re not alone. It can be confusing, especially if the story was working just moments ago or others seem to be viewing it just fine.

This error usually means that the story has either been deleted, expired, hidden due to privacy settings, or there’s a technical issue on your end. In some cases, it could even be because the person blocked you, or their account was deactivated or banned.

In this article, we’ll explain:

• The most common reasons Instagram says a story is unavailable
• What it really means when you see this message
• Step-by-step solutions to fix or understand the issue
• When it’s a normal Instagram behavior vs. a bug

Whether you’re trying to view a friend’s story, a public page, or something you were tagged in, this guide will help you understand what’s going on and what you can do next.

What Does “This Story Is Unavailable” Mean on Instagram?

When Instagram shows you the message “This Story Is Unavailable,” it means the story you’re trying to view can’t be accessed anymore, either because it was removed, restricted, or there’s a technical problem.

This message commonly appears when:

• The story has expired after 24 hours
• The story was deleted by the user
• You were blocked or removed from the user’s followers list
• The account’s privacy settings prevent you from viewing stories
• There’s a temporary app or network issue

Instagram stories are meant to be temporary and personalized, which means you won’t always be able to view every story. In many cases, it’s just because the story has already disappeared. Other times, it might be a simple technical hiccup or the user has updated their privacy settings.

Instagram does not provide details about why a story is suddenly unavailable.

Top Reasons You’re Seeing “This Story Is Unavailable” on Instagram

Seeing the “This Story Is Unavailable” message can be confusing, especially when it shows up out of nowhere. Below are the most common reasons why this happens — each tied to how Instagram manages story visibility and user access.

The Instagram Story Has Expired (After 24 Hours)

By design, every Instagram Story automatically disappears after 24 hours unless the user adds it to their Story Highlights. If you tap on a story notification or link after the 24-hour window, Instagram will show “This Story Is Unavailable.”

This can happen even if:

• You received the notification just a few hours ago (but the story went live earlier)
• You left Instagram open and returned after the story expired
• You’re in a different time zone or missed the exact posting time

So if you come across “This story is unavailable”, it’s possible the story just hit its 24-hour limit. No worries, though!

Just hit up the person who posted it and ask them to keep it in their highlights or send it to you in a direct message.

That way, you won’t miss out even after the Insta story has disappeared.

User Deleted the Instagram Story

Users can also delete stories manually before the 24-hour period is up. This often happens if the user:

• Made a mistake while uploading
• Got too many negative replies or reactions
• Replaced it with a corrected version

In such cases, the story is completely removed — not just hidden — and you’ll see the same “Story Unavailable” message when trying to view it.

Once deleted, the story is no longer accessible on Instagram.

The Story is Hidden from You

Another typical reason for this story is unavailable on Instagram message is if the user has limited the story’s visibility.

Instagram allows users to hide stories from specific followers. If someone has intentionally excluded you, the story will show as unavailable even though others can see it.

So, if they prefer to keep a story from you, they simply add you to their restricted list before sharing it with the others. Ouch, indeed!

The Story Is from a Private Account

Instagram users can set their accounts to private, which is a way to handpick who can see their posts.

If a public account suddenly goes private, only approved followers can see its content. If you’re not following the user (or they removed your follow), their story becomes unavailable.

To get a look at someone’s private story, you’ll have to ask them to follow you and wait for a yes. When they accept, you’ll be set to view their stories without any issues.

You’ve Been Blocked by the User

Instagram allows users to block people they’re not comfortable sharing anything with (or being in touch with!).

If the person who posted the story blocked you or removed you from their followers, you’ll no longer have access to their content, including stories. This can happen even if you had access minutes before.

Fret not, though, being blocked is common on social media, much like being ignored at a social gathering.

You could simply check out the specific story from another account if you really want to.

Instagram Removed the Story

If you’re wondering why Instagram says “Story Unavailable”, one common reason is that the story was removed by Instagram for violating its community guidelines.

Instagram has certain guidelines, policies, and rules to keep users safe and protect their privacy.

For example, if a story contains offensive language, copyrighted material, graphic content, or any form of harassment or misinformation, Instagram can take it down to maintain a safe space for users.

In such cases, even if you’re following the person, you won’t be able to view that story again — it’s permanently removed from the platform.

Instagram doesn’t always notify users when this happens, which can be confusing.

So if you suddenly see that a story disappeared and it says “This story is unavailable”, it may not be a glitch or privacy issue—it could be due to a content violation.

This is Instagram’s way of protecting its community, and another reason to ensure your content aligns with their terms of service and posting guidelines.

Only Close Friends Can View the Story

Instagram’s Close Friends feature lets you post stories for just a chosen few on your contacts list.

Users can make a close buddies list and their Instagram stories will show just for the folks on their list. If you’re not on that list, those special stories stay hidden unless the user adds you.

User Deactivated the Account

If Instagram temporarily disables or permanently bans an account, all its content — including stories — becomes inaccessible. You’ll get the same “Story Is Unavailable” notice.

Account holders have the option to disable their profiles, whether for a break or to leave Instagram forever.

If an account is inactive, it means you can’t see any of their posts or stories. If someone chooses to go this way, their stories won’t be visible.

For someone’s profile to be visible again, they need to switch their account back on. If you’re unsure if this is the case, try reaching out to the person another way.

Technical Issues

Don’t forget that Instagram is an application, and as such, isn’t immune to the occasional glitch.

When stories don’t show up, it could be due to server issues, a bug, or routine App maintenance.

The techies at Instagram are usually zipping around to fix these as quickly as they can. Invariably, seeing “This Story Is Unavailable” on Instagram doesn’t automatically mean big trouble, like a block or account deactivation.

Instagram hiccups usually tend to clear up on their own, so just hang in there for a bit.

Instagram is Down

Sometimes, the simplest explanation for this story is unavailable, Instagram, is most likely the right one.

Even if there’s no bug or technical glitch, Instagram App could be done for a variety of reasons.

So, while the experts handle this as quickly as they can, users need to hold their horses and wait for Insta to be back up again.

How to Fix This Story is Unavailable on Instagram

If Instagram is showing “This Story Is Unavailable”, don’t panic — in many cases, it’s something you can fix or troubleshoot on your own. Let’s walk through the most effective steps to resolve this common Instagram error.

Clear Instagram’s Cache

Still scratching your head over why does Instagram say this story is unavailable? It’s probably your phone’s cache having a difficult moment.

Imagine it like a virtual cookie jar that’s gotten pretty stale. Just empty it, and your phone can then snatch up the latest scoops from the server.

Regularly removing stored temporary data on your phone can prevent problems and make not just Instagram but all the other apps run much smoother.

Check Your Internet Connection

The next step to learning how to fix this story is unavailable on Instagram is to check your internet connection.

That’s because often, when you see the error message on Instagram “this story is unavailable”, it might simply be because of an unstable net connection.

To fix the “this story is unavailable on Instagram” trouble, reboot your router or modem.

Check if other applications are running fine – if they are, your network is likely okay. Instagram stories need a solid signal to load. Disabling the Data Saver setting may help speed up loading.

For better results, use a WiFi connection that’s higher in GHz or toggle between WiFi and mobile data to see if it makes a difference.

If you’re still stuck, give your router a restart to solve the hitch and get back to your Instagram stories quickly.

Refresh Your Instagram Feed

Sometimes, Instagram may not show the newest stories and instead give you a view from your last visit.

Make sure to refresh your feed by pulling down on your screen and holding for a second or two if you come across Instagram’s this story is unavailable message.

This could bring back stories that seemed to have disappeared. If you’re coming back to Instagram after a break, this refreshing trick often gets things working properly instantly.

Simply swipe down to update your feed – it syncs everything and might let you see the missing story.

If refreshing the feed doesn’t help with the story that’s not showing up, keep looking for other ways to fix it.

Follow a Private Instagram Account

Instagram users can have an open profile or one that’s private, where only accepted followers can see their posts.

If you bump into a “This Story Is Unavailable Instagram” error message, it’s because the account is private and you’re not a follower. Peek at their profile to confirm if it’s private.

If yes, you’ll be greeted with a “This Account is Private” banner. To get access, simply press ‘Follow’ and wait for their response.

If they accept your request, those “unavailable story” messages vanish and if not, their content remains locked to you.

Update Instagram APP

Instagram constantly tries out fresh new features to make sure users stay engaged.

Be aware that these attempts can also bring minor hiccups, such as the dreaded ‘IG story unavailable’ errors.

Instagram typically releases updates to correct these issues in time. That’s why it’s wise to keep your Insta App up to date, by keeping a check for available updates and running them.

Try Accessing the Story with Another Account

If you’re seeing “This Story Is Unavailable” on your main account, one of the best ways to test what’s going on is to try viewing the story from a different Instagram account. This simple trick can help you identify whether you’re:

• Blocked from viewing the story
• Removed as a follower
• Not included in “Close Friends”
• Experiencing a personal account glitch

Log Out and Log In to Instagram

Facing issues with your Instagram stories feed and tired of reading the “this story is unavailable” – Instagram message?

A simple fix is to log out and log back into your Instagram account. Taking a break from your Instagram by logging out might get rid of any glitchy files.

Re-logging into your Instagram account fixes several minor snags or loading errors at times. This re-establishes your Instagram server link and may iron out tech hiccups, too.

Contacting Instagram Support

If all else fails, seek aid from the digital powers that be. Simply go to the settings and tap on “Help” to report the problem.

You can also send them an email outlining the issue and wait for a response (which many claim is unlikely).

Conclusion: Understanding the “This Story Is Unavailable” Message on Instagram

Seeing “This Story Is Unavailable” on Instagram can be frustrating — especially when you’re trying to view a story you were tagged in or expecting to see. The good news? It’s usually not personal.

From stories being deleted, set to private, or hidden from you, to Instagram bugs or expired content, there are several reasons why this error appears. By going through the checklist above — like testing from another account or updating your app — you can figure out what’s really happening and whether it’s something you can fix or not.

If you’re still unsure, remember:

• Stories disappear after 24 hours unless saved
• Some users customize who sees their content
• Instagram glitches are more common than you think

📌 Pro Tip: Keep your app updated, clear the cache regularly, and check your connection — most story issues can be resolved with these simple steps.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Instagram Story Unavailable Errors