Instander (modded version of Instagram) has quickly become the go-to app for users who want more freedom: ad-free scrolling, story downloads, ghost mode, and HD uploads.
But with every new update (like Instander 18.0), one question keeps trending on Reddit, “Is it really safe or even legal to use?” Or is there anything worth concerning about my data?
Today, I’ve compiled this guide on Instander and tried to cover all your concerns while answering the most common questions about this mod Instagram tool.
What is Instander?
Instander is a modified version of Instagram for Android that promises extra features: ad-blocking, download options, more privacy controls, hidden views, and more.
Instander 18.0 or v18: Latest Update of Instander APK
The community around it, such as the subreddit r/Instander, discusses updates, bugs, and alternative builds. The dev (‘Dise’) announced the beta with a festive message: “After months of hard work … Instander version 18.0 beta is finally here!”
- An updated “Ghost Mode” for viewing stories/messages anonymously.
- There is some ambiguity about official support, update frequency, and the legitimacy of builds.
- Performance claims: one user noticed “Performance wise I’d say is just as good or even better than the previous stable version…”
Why Do Users Use Instander?
The tool performs several tasks anonymously:
- Viewing Instagram stories, posts, messages, and more anonymously
- Download Instagram content directly from the app
- Disable ads, enable analytics, and crash reports
@lk.tech.briefing Unlock the Full Potential of Instagram with Instander!!! (feels illegal to know) #technology #review #foryoupage #fyp #foryou #viralvideo #viral #CapCut #phone #instagram #android ♬ original sound – LK Tech Briefing
As Ik.tech.briefing explains Instander’s features that make it appealing for those users who want to stay anonymous on Instagram, but there is more to see when you make eye contact.
What Are the Hidden Risks of Using Instander?
There are some hidden risks of using Instander on your device, which you should know before installing this Mod APK on your smartphones.
1. Privacy
When you install Instander, you’re granting access to your Instagram account through an unofficial app. This means:
- You’re sharing your login credentials with a third-party developer, not Meta.
- The app’s code is closed-source, meaning no one outside its creator can verify what it actually does with your data.
- Sensitive data, such as messages, followers, and browsing habits, could be logged or transmitted elsewhere without your knowledge.
A user shared his concern on Reddit:
“I wish someone would make Instander a patch instead of its own closed source APK because you can’t verify privacy with it whatsoever.”
– WinXPbootsup – Instander User on Reddit
2. Security Threats from Unverified APKs
The official Instander website has gone offline multiple times, pushing users to search for APKs on third-party sites. The problem? Many of these sites host modified or fake APKs that can contain:
- Malware or spyware
- Keyloggers that steal login information
- Adware that runs background scripts
A single fake version can compromise your phone’s security and personal accounts.
Even Reddit users have posted warnings:
“Unfortunately, also thedise.me site is down, used to have the entire repo and clones. I think the dev is dropping the project.”
– Holyfir3 – Instander User on Reddit
3. Violation of Instagram’s Terms of Service
Using Instander directly violates Instagram’s ToS, which explicitly bans modified clients or apps that mimic its service.
Instagram can detect mod usage through:
- Login patterns
- API inconsistencies
- Modified app signatures
This means you’re always at risk of:
- Permanent account suspension
- Temporary shadowbans (where your posts don’t appear in hashtags or feeds)
- Loss of Reels monetization or ad access
4. Update Delays and Abandoned Support
Unlike official Instagram updates that roll out every few weeks, Instander updates rely on a single developer or a small volunteer team.
When the dev takes a break, as happened in mid-2024, users get stuck with outdated builds that:
- Stop syncing with Instagram servers
- Crash when new features (like Threads integration) are added
- Pose security risks due to unpatched vulnerabilities
Reddit threads often read like this:
“Dear Instanders,
We want to let you know that the website, thedise.me, is currently undergoing maintenance … Your support means the world to us!
Warm regards,
The Dise team”
Is Using Instander Safe in 2025?
No, using Instander isn’t safe in 2025 because of several security breaches and violations of Instagram’s privacy policy.
“There is no official website of Instander available on the internet, which makes it more scary for Instander users who demand anonymity.”
Legal Concerns of Using Instander
Behind Instander, there is a complex legal gray area that many users overlook. Since it isn’t developed or endorsed by Meta, using or distributing it can breach copyright law, digital rights policies, and terms of service.
So, before hitting the “Install” button, it’s essential to know what’s on Stalk:
- Violation of Instagram’s Terms of Service (Illegal)
- Copyright and Intellectual Property Violations (Illegal)
- Data Privacy and Legal Accountability (Could steal your data)
Before installing Instander, ask yourself a question:
“Is a few extra features worth the risk of losing my data, or my account?”
Common Questions About Instander
Q1. Can I get banned using Instander?
Yes. Instagram may suspend or permanently ban users who access the platform through modified apps.
Q2. Why isn’t it available on the Play Store?
Because it doesn’t comply with Google’s or Meta’s privacy and policy guidelines.
Q3. What’s the best alternative?
Stick to official apps or browser extensions that have verified developer support and strong security records.
Q4. Does Instander support sharing to the new Threads app alongside Instagram?
At least some users report that sharing to Threads works in earlier builds. But given the update irregularity, there’s no guarantee that future versions will maintain full compatibility with Instagram/Threads features.
