What is a Finsta? Understanding the Definition and Purpose

What Is Finsta?

Finsta is a common term used for fake Instagram accounts. Young adults and teens generally use these accounts to document candid and real posts that they can only share with a few trusted people.

Generally, an Instagram account is used to post edited pictures and Reels that conform to what followers may like. On the contrary, Finsta is a social media account where the user can be themselves without the judgment of others.

More About Finsta

The term ‘Finstagram’ first appeared in 2011 when users started observing the difference between original and fake Instagram accounts. The term gained traction in 2013 and entered the mainstream social media vocabulary in 2015. Later, as Gen Z got on social media, they shortened the term to ‘Finsta.’

Now that you have the answer to ‘What is Finsta,’ let’s look at what goes into creating one. The first step is coming up with a unique username. You don’t have to choose your first or last name, but you can go for a pseudonym. Next, select a unique profile picture that is anything but you. Doing so ensures anonymity.

That way, your friends can access your page only when you share your username.

If you want to start your own Finsta, these are the steps to follow:

Open Instagram on your mobile.
From the bottom right corner, select the ‘add account option.’
Select ‘Create new account’ and enter the relevant details.
Remember not to link your primary Instagram account.
Once your account is ready, you can start posting

Famous celebrity Bella Hadid created a Finsta with the name ‘Rebekka Harajuku’ during her Japan trip in 2018. She used a fake username and did not reveal her Finsta to the general public. In the image, you can see the two Instagram accounts. The one on the left is her public Instagram account, and on the right is the Finsta account.

The account on the right displays her real name and has millions of followers. Posts are updated regularly on this account.

On the right side is the Finsta, which provides a glimpse into her Japan trip and has a few thousand followers. Posts were uploaded only during her trip, and the account has not been updated since.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are all Finstas fake?

A Finsta is not ‘fake’ per se. Instead, it is a place where people can be the most authentic version of themselves and provide their family and friends with a personal glimpse into their life. A Finsta can have posts on personal experiences, struggles, or even something humorous you may not want to share with the public.

What are the important functions of a Finsta?

A Finsta can be a safe space for people who are otherwise pressured to present themselves a certain way online. A Finsta serves as a private space for users to share content with a close circle of friends, away from the pressures of a public profile. It allows for more authentic and unfiltered content and can also be used for personal expression and mental health support.

Are Finstas overrun with illegal or risqué behavior?

Typically, not. The content being posted on a Finsta depends on the user. Since most teens have Finstas, it is natural for parents to feel concerned. Generally, a Finsta is used innovatively by young people to let off steam, share inside jokes, or even post unflattering pictures of themselves that they may not want to post on their public Instagram accounts.

Do I need a Finstagram?

Whether or not you need a Finstagram depends on your social media preferences and social usage. If you value privacy and want to share more personal and unfiltered content with a select group of friends, a Finstagram may be a good option.

However, if you are comfortable sharing your life publicly and do not feel the need for a separate private account, a Finstagram may not be necessary. Ultimately, the decision to create a Finstagram is up to you and your individual needs and preferences

Are there any tips for opening a Finsta?

When opening a Finsta, exchange follow requests only with your close friends and family members. To maintain privacy, do not link it to your public Instagram profile. You can also have a unique username and maintain a low follower count.