Short answer
Instagram typically removes most EXIF metadata from the photo your followers can download or screenshot. But you should assume Instagram can still access the original metadata you uploaded, and policies can change.
Why Instagram usually strips EXIF
Like most social platforms, Instagram compresses and re-encodes images to save bandwidth. That process generally drops embedded EXIF fields (camera model, GPS, timestamps) in the public version.
What Instagram may still know
Even if EXIF is removed from the public file, platforms can still retain information about your upload:
- Upload time and IP‑based location.
- Device and app telemetry collected by Instagram.
- Original file metadata you sent, stored server‑side.
That’s why relying on a platform’s automatic stripping is risky. For a broader breakdown, see how platforms handle metadata.
How to post on Instagram safely
- Remove EXIF before upload. This prevents GPS and device info from reaching the platform at all.
- Double‑check location tags in the app. Avoid adding a place or using a location sticker.
- Be careful with backgrounds. Landmarks can reveal location even without GPS data.
Remove metadata in seconds
Use PrivacyStrip to clean photos locally in your browser, then upload the cleaned version to Instagram.
- Open privacystrip.com.
- Select your photos.
- Review detected EXIF/GPS data.
- Tap Remove All Metadata and download the clean files.
- Post those to Instagram.
FAQ
Can followers see my GPS location from Instagram photos?
In the public file, typically no — but it’s still safest to remove metadata yourself before uploading. Learn why in this privacy risks guide.