Fake instagrams (finstas) have become an increasing trend in the world of social media

Teenagers use all sorts of social media applications like Facebook, Snapchat, Vine, Instagram, and if you thought that was it, you are mistaken. Now teenagers are making additional Instagram accounts to post more out of the ordinary pictures then what is seen on their normal accounts. These accounts are usually private, and are opened up to only the user’s closest friends.

Sophomore Kyle Baker goes by the name “Byle Kaker” on his fake account. He uses his finsta to post inside jokes that only his close friends would understand.

I originally did not understand the point of this trend. Fake Instagram accounts are still real accounts. Real pictures. Real captions. Real followers. Real users. You are still posting content to the internet that will be on there forever. All it takes is a screenshot and to press send for these private accounts to become not-so-private.

Although I see finstas as pointless, I find myself laughing at posts I see and sometimes pressing the follow button on these accounts.

I ask myself, “Why don’t people just post these pictures on their regular account?” Sophomore Carson Nickels goes by the name “d1_ginger” on his finsta and says that he likes posting some funnier and more embarrassing pictures to his finsta account for his closest friends. He also uses witty and comical captions to match those pictures.

Why let people follow you on your normal account if you aren’t comfortable enough for them to see your goofy side?

I think using a separate account to be inappropriate or weird is just not necessary nor worth the time to try to keep up with posting on your fake and regular Instagrams.

The FAQ tab on Instagram says that Instagram is a fun and quirky way to share your life with friends and family through a series of pictures. The whole aspect of family is dropped when using these accounts. Fake Instagrams were not what Instagram was made for.