Instagram couldn’t create thread is an error message caused by sending too many direct messages in a short time frame. The error message typically looks like this “Couldn’t create thread. We’re sorry, but something went wrong. Please try again” on your Instagram when you try sending a direct message to someone.
Receiving this error message is extremely frustrating because you are unable to send any direct messages. Especially if it’s an emergency. Many Instagram users are experiencing or have previously experienced this issue.
This article will explain why you received the “Couldn’t create thread” error, how to fix it, and how to avoid it in the future. And just so you know, the error has been a global issue a few times before, so Instagram being down is unusual.
However, On Twitter, search for the hashtag #instagramdown to see if other users are experiencing the same problem. If they are, then the error is not just on your end, but on Instagram’s.
Without any further delay, let’s look at what caused the error and how to fix and prevent it.
Why is My Instagram Saying “Couldn’t Create Thread?”
If you got the “Couldn’t create thread” error from Instagram, it means you sent too many direct messages at once. If you send too many consecutive direct messages to others, Instagram will temporarily disable direct messaging for you.
This is due to Instagram mistaking you for a bot sending automated direct messages or abusing the direct message feature. Otherwise, you may be getting the error because Instagram direct messages are unreachable or down.
The Down Detector website allows you to check Instagram’s status. If you notice an increase in reports, Instagram is most likely down. In either case, you will be temporarily restricted from sending direct messages on Instagram.
The block is a “cooldown” period that can last several hours, 24 hours, or longer depending on a variety of factors.
How to Fix the “Couldn’t Create Thread” Error on Instagram?
There is no step by step process to fix the Instagram thread error instantly as it is caused by users sending too many direct messages in short time. To fix the Instagram “Couldn’t create thread” error, you will have to wait for the cooldown period. Extending on the previous section, the block could last up to 24 hours or more. This is Instagram’s way of punishing users who abuse the direct message feature just like Facebook has Facebook Jail.
The good thing is that this block is not permanent and you will be able to send direct messages again.
However, if you have not used bots to send direct messages or feel like this error should not have happened, check if the Instagram is down. For that, you can check twitter hashtag #instadown or visit websites such as Dow detector to see if Instagram is down.
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How to Avoid the Instagram “Couldn’t Create Thread” Error?
There are three things you can do to avoid getting the “Couldn’t create thread” error again.
To avoid the error, stop repetitively direct messaging others, stop using automation, and experiment with different variations of direct messages instead of copy-pasting. Furthermore, when sending direct messages in the future, make sure to send them at regular intervals to avoid this error.
The three prevention methods are detailed below.
1. Stop Direct Messaging Others Repetitively
To avoid the “Couldn’t create thread” error, stop direct messaging others repeatedly as this is the underlying cause of the error. When you stop repeatedly direct messaging others, your chances of getting the “Couldn’t create thread” error on Instagram will be extremely low. Instead, send direct messages to others every 10 minutes.
Instagram constantly “punishes” bot activity and spam, so in order to avoid the action block, you must use the app as if you were a human being. This will prevent future action blocking on your account.
2. Stop Using Automation and Bots
Send direct messages manually rather than using bots or automation. Instagram will block you if you use automation which enables you to send direct messages to others at a faster rate.
Your account will be action blocked less frequently once you stop using bots or automation. So, if you want to avoid the error, stop using automation entirely.
3. Send Different Variations of a Direct Message
Stop sending the same direct message to different users by copying and pasting it. Instagram will suspect you are a bot and will temporarily disable direct messaging. Send different variations of a message instead of sending similar direct messages.
For example, you could copy and paste the following direct message and send it to a large number of users:
“Hello there, I’m August!”.
Instead of just one message, make two more that you can copy and paste.
“Hi there, I’m August!”.
“Hey there, I’m August!”.
Creating multiple variations of a direct message will greatly reduce the likelihood of your account being action blocked and will prevent the “Couldn’t create thread” error from occurring in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Instagram DM block last?
Action blocks typically last 12 to 48 hours, but they can sometimes last up to two weeks. If that’s the case, and you don’t want to wait that long, you can work on another account while waiting to be unblocked.
How do you know if someone has you on restricted on Instagram?
While it is obvious when a user has been blocked because you can no longer find that user on the platform. However, it is not obvious when they have been restricted. You will see that user’s posts in their feed as usual. You will, however, no longer be able to see when the user is online or has read their messages.
Why has Instagram restricted my activity?
What Can Set Off Instagram’s Action Block? Action blocks are typically caused by performing too many actions in a short period of time, per hour or per day. Instagram will block your actions if you exceed the allowed hourly or daily action limits.
Conclusion
If you receive the “Couldn’t create thread” error on Instagram, stop attempting to DM (direct message) others and wait for 24 hours (or more) for it to be removed.
If Instagram is down, there isn’t much you can do until Instagram resolves the issue on its end. Stop attempting other methods or solutions to fix the problem or it will worsen.
Wait for the direct message “cooldown” to expire.