Link in Instagram DM not opening or not clickable? What to check

The link in your automated Instagram DM won't open or isn't clickable. Why it happens, which links get flagged, and how to make links that always work.

By Umang Patel, Satnam Web Services · 22 October 2026 · Updated 23 October 2026 · 2 min read

Your comment to DM automation sends the link, but people say they cannot tap it, or it shows as plain text. The automation did its job. The problem is usually the link itself or how Instagram treats it.

  • Missing https:// Links written as mystore.com/sale may not become tappable. Always paste the full address starting with https://.
  • Link shorteners. Some short links are used by spammers, and Instagram can show a warning or refuse to open them. Use your own domain where you can.
  • Messages from accounts the person does not follow. Instagram can show links in message requests as plain text until the person accepts the chat.
  • The page blocks in-app browsers. Some login pages and payment pages behave badly inside Instagram's built-in browser.
  • A typo or a space inside the link, often from copying out of a document.
  • Instagram bugs. Now and then links stop working for some users for a day. If every link from every tool fails, it is probably on Instagram's side.
  1. Put the link on a button. A URL button in the DM is tappable even when plain text links are not. DM Flow sends your link on a button by default.
  2. Use the full https address of your own website or store.
  3. Open the link inside Instagram yourself from a second account before going live.
  4. Send people to a simple page, such as a product page or a catalogue, not a login wall.
  5. Use UTM tags rather than shorteners if you want to track clicks: ?utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=dm.

What to tell people who still cannot open it

  • Accept the message request first, then tap again.
  • Update the Instagram app.
  • Long-press the link and copy it into the phone browser.

Frequently asked questions

Why is my link not blue in the Instagram DM?

Usually because it is missing https://, or the chat is still a message request. Use a button or the full address.

Are bit.ly links safe to send in Instagram DMs?

They often work, but shortened links are more likely to be flagged. A link on your own domain is safer.

Can I send a WhatsApp or UPI link?

Yes. Both work as normal links. Test them inside Instagram before you go live.

About the author

Umang Patel builds DM Flow at Satnam Web Services in Gujarat, India, and writes about Instagram automation for Indian brands, sellers and creators. Questions? Get in touch.

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