Fix Instagram 'Action Blocked' (Like & Comment Ban)

Updated: 11/29/2025

You try to like a photo or leave a comment, and a pop-up stops you: 'Action Blocked. This action was blocked. Please try again later.'. This is a 'Soft Ban'. Instagram's AI spam filter thinks you are a bot because you performed too many actions (likes/follows) in a short period, or you are using a banned IP address.

Table of Contents

The 'Cooldown' Timer

Unlike a permanent ban, this block has a timer. It usually lasts:

  • Level 1: 15 Minutes to 1 Hour.
  • Level 2: 24 Hours (Most common).
  • Level 3: 7 Days (If you keep spamming while blocked).
Rule #1: Stop trying! Every time you click 'Like' and get the error, the timer resets.

Method 1: Switch to Mobile Data (IP Reset)

If your home WiFi IP was flagged (e.g., multiple people in your house use Instagram), you need a new IP.

  • Turn off WiFi.
  • Enable LTE / 5G.
  • Close the app and reopen it.
  • Try liking ONE photo. If it works, your WiFi IP is the problem. Restart your router to get a new one.

Method 2: Link Other Socials

Bots usually don't have linked Facebook accounts. Proving you are human raises your 'Trust Score'.

Go to Settings > Account > Linked Accounts (or Accounts Center). Link a Facebook or Twitter profile. This signals to the AI that you are a legitimate user, often lifting the block early.

Method 3: The 'Tell Us' Button

If the pop-up has a button that says 'Tell Us', click it. Do not ignore it. This sends a manual review request to the moderation queue. Write 'I am a real user, not a bot' if prompted.