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US-based service - Your data may be subject to US CLOUD Act and accessed by US authorities

Instagram logo

Instagram

🇺🇸US Company

by Meta

Instagram allows individuals to share photos and videos, connect with friends, and discover content from around the world through a visual platform.

EU Alternatives to Instagram

3 privacy-focused, GDPR-compliant alternatives

PixelFed logo

PixelFed

🇪🇺

by PixelFed

Learn more about Pixelfed, the free and open-source decentralized photo sharing social media platform

Open SourceEU-hosted
freeMigration:2-4 hours

Why switch?

  • No ads, unlike Instagram's sponsored posts
  • Decentralized, reducing single-point failure risk
  • GDPR compliance ensures data protection

Consider

  • Fewer users, limiting social reach
  • No Reels or IGTV equivalent for video content
BeReal logo

BeReal

🇪🇺

by BeReal

BeReal is a unique messaging app designed to foster genuine connections by encouraging users to share authentic moments. Each day, users receive a prompt to capture and share a photo within a limited timeframe, ensuring spontaneity and realness. Unlike traditional social media platforms, BeReal emphasizes privacy and simplicity, with no public profiles or follower counts, and content that disappears after a short period. Key features include real-time notifications when friends post, location sharing for added context, and user-controlled data deletion, ensuring that users maintain control over their digital footprint. BeReal is particularly appealing to individuals seeking a more authentic social media experience, free from the pressures of curated content and constant engagement metrics. Privacy and security are paramount, with BeReal hosting data in Europe, fully compliant with GDPR standards, offering users peace of mind regarding data sovereignty and protection. While the app is free to download and use, it may explore additional monetization options in the future. BeReal is ideal for those who value privacy and authenticity in their digital interactions.

GDPR CompliantEU-hosted
freeMigration:1-2 hours

Why switch?

  • Daily prompts encourage authentic sharing habits
  • No follower counts reduce social pressure
  • GDPR compliance ensures strict data protection

Consider

  • Limited features compared to Instagram's offerings
  • Learning curve for new daily prompt system
Mastodon logo

Mastodon

🇪🇺

Mastodon is an open source federated microblogging service/social media platform. A federated social network is decentralized, similar to how email works. Since Mastodon is open source, anyone with enough technical know-how can create their own Mastodon server where users can register. A Mastodon server is comparable to the email provider in the email system. Mastodon servers can communicate with each other via a standardized and open protocol called ActivityPub. Thanks to this protocol it is possible that users from one Mastodon server can for example follow users from other server or like their content.

Open SourceSelf-HostableEU-hosted
freeMigration:1-2 hours

Why switch?

  • Decentralized: No single point of control or failure
  • GDPR compliant: User data protected under EU laws
  • Open-source: Community-driven development and transparency

Consider

  • Smaller user base: Less reach compared to Instagram
  • Learning curve: New interface and features to understand

Why switch from Instagram?

US CLOUD Act

US authorities can access your data stored by US companies, even if stored in Europe.

Privacy Concerns

US companies may collect and use your data in ways not compliant with EU standards.

EU Alternatives

EU-based services must comply with GDPR, giving you stronger privacy protections.

Other Social Networks you might want to replace

Ready to switch to a privacy-focused alternative?

Protect your data by moving to an EU-based service. Our migration guides make switching easy.