Social Media Mastery - What are shadow bans and how can I avoid them? - Episode 11
Episode 11. We are absolutely flying now!
What a past 168 hours it has been! Since the last edition of this newsletter, I have found myself posting so much social media content that I can hardly believe it’s all my own work.
I love social media, but only because I can see clear progression. Those who cannot see any progression might have a certain issue called a ‘Shadow Ban’.
But what are shadow bans and how can you avoid them?
The phrase ‘Shadow Ban’ sounds so threatening, when really it just means:
When a social media platform limits the visibility of your posts or account without officially notifying you.
Essentially - you can still post content, but nobody will see your content.
This is an awful situation to be in, as the feeling of the unknown is very stressful. I don’t know about you, but I would just rather be told that I am banned, rather than being left in the dark.
Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook use shadow banning (whether officially acknowledged or not) to control spammy, inappropriate, or rule-breaking content - and sometimes by mistake, they apply it to regular users too.
Here is how to negate being Shadow Banned:
Follow community guidelines strictly
Always read and stick to each platform’s rules (even small violations can trigger bans).
Avoid banned or overused hashtags
Some hashtags are hidden or flagged (e.g., on Instagram). Always check a hashtag before using it.
Don’t spam content or comments
Posting too often, repeating the same comment, or aggressively liking/following can look spammy to algorithms.
Use genuine, non-automated behaviour
Avoid using bots, auto-likers, mass schedulers, or fake engagement tools.
Limit sudden spikes in activity
Rapidly following/unfollowing users or mass DM-ing people can trigger spam detection.
Post high-quality, original content
Recycled or heavily copied content can sometimes be flagged - original, valuable posts are safer.
Diversify your content types
Mix Stories, Reels, Lives, and regular posts (on Instagram/TikTok) to look like a real active user, not a spam account.
Check hashtag performance regularly
If a hashtag stops showing your posts, remove it and use alternatives.
Stay away from controversial or misleading topics
Sensitive subjects can be heavily moderated (especially on TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram).
Warm up new accounts slowly
If you create a new account, build activity naturally (don't try to grow by posting 10+ times a day immediately).
Be cautious with third-party apps
Only connect apps officially approved by the platform (analytics, schedulers, etc.).
Dodgy apps = automatic red flags.
Monitor your engagement carefully
If you notice sudden drops (especially in reach or hashtag views), adjust behaviour immediately.
File an appeal if you suspect a ban
If you think your account is wrongly affected, most platforms allow you to request a review.
Pause activity for 48-72 hours (if already suspected)
Sometimes doing a full ‘cool-off’ helps reset your account’s trust rating.
Keep your bio and profile information complete and professional
Empty bios, no profile pictures, or links to dodgy websites can lower your account’s trustworthiness.
Nobody wants a Shadow Ban. Especially those who own a business. I strongly recommend following the above advice to prevent your business’s social media pages from being restricted.
In some cases, people believe they may have been shadow banned, when they actually haven’t. For the first 10 posts on my first ever tiktok account, I got a combined 7 views. I was totally sure I had been shadow banned. So I left my account, I then came back to it 2 months later. My first post back reached 1,000 views, and I was away from there.
Stay safe, make sure to subscribe, and remember - “Authenticity is your greatest strength - no one else can replicate who you truly are.”
- Jacob
For more daily Social Media Insight - press here.
To Boost your brand’s exposure with expert support - press here
