What is inside the Instagram export ZIP?
Instagram’s official export is a ZIP full of JSON files. SecureFollow reads a small subset locally, without asking for your password or uploading anything.
What the official ZIP is
Instagram gives you a ZIP archive that contains many folders and JSON files (plus media). You can request it from Accounts Center.
- The important parts for SecureFollow are JSON files (not HTML).
- You can share the ZIP with SecureFollow without logging in.
- Everything is processed in your browser, not on a server.
Not every account includes the same files. If SecureFollow recognizes extra JSON, it shows it; otherwise it ignores it.
Which files matter for SecureFollow
SecureFollow uses the followers and following lists (often split into followers_*.json and following_*.json).
followers_1.jsonaccounts that follow youfollowing_1.jsonaccounts you follow
If you don't see followers.json, look for followers_1.json (new format). Exports can be split into followers_2.json / following_2.json and often use string_list_data.
Other connection files you may see (optional)
- recent_follow_requests.json (or similar): follow-request entries (usernames + timestamps).
- pending_follow_requests.json / pending_follow_requests_sent.json: requests you may see in some exports.
- close_friends.json: your Close Friends list (if present).
- blocked_users.json / blocked_accounts.json: blocked accounts (if present).
- restricted_profiles.json / restricted_accounts.json: restricted accounts (if present).
- recently_unfollowed_profiles.json / recently_unfollowed_accounts.json: accounts you recently unfollowed (if present).
These files may or may not appear depending on your account and export settings. Instagram can rename files/keys over time. SecureFollow scans the ZIP and tries to detect and parse known variants to show them when available.
Typical folder paths in exports
Instagram can store the files in different folders depending on export version.
connections/followers_and_following/followers_1.jsonconnections/followers_and_following/following_1.jsonconnections/followers_and_following/close_friends.json
Common issues and quick fixes
- Export is HTML → request JSON format and download again.
- Missing followers/following files → re-export and include Connections.
- ZIP is corrupt or empty → re-download the export.
How SecureFollow uses the files (local-only)
SecureFollow reads the JSON lists, compares them, and generates your unfollowers, not-following-back, and mutuals.
- No file uploads. The ZIP stays on your device.
- No Instagram password required.
- Results are computed instantly in your browser.
FAQ
Do you need my Instagram password?
No. SecureFollow works only with the official export ZIP.
Can I upload the HTML export?
No. SecureFollow needs the JSON export files.
Where are followers_*.json and following_*.json?
Typically under connections/followers_and_following/. If you don't see followers.json, look for followers_1.json (new format).
What is recent_follow_requests.json?
It's a Connections file that can contain follow-request entries (usernames and timestamps). It's not required for the main follower lists (Snapshot/Diff), but it can power the Pending Requests list when available.
Why do I see extra JSON files in followers_and_following?
Instagram exports can include optional connection files (requests, blocked, close friends, etc.). Not every account has them and names may vary. SecureFollow tries to read what it recognizes.
Does SecureFollow store my data?
No. Everything runs locally in your browser.
Ready to check your followers?
Open the app and drop in your ZIP. If you haven't requested it yet, use the guide.