Instagram may soon let you watch stories anonymously – if you pay

Stalking your ex on Instagram may soon become much easier, as Meta is testing a paid subscription feature that would let users view stories in stealth mode.

Instagram’s paid subscription would let users view another user’s story – a video or image that disappears 24 hours after – without them knowing, TechCrunch first reported.

Currently, a creator can see who views their stories.

Other Instagram Plus features include extending a story by an additional 24 hours and creating audience lists beyond “Close Friends,” according to TechCrunch.

Watching stories – especially those of an ex romantic partner – is a widely discussed topic on social media. The intention can range from curiosity and looking for a low-effort way to stay connected to cyberstalking.

A 2015 study found that 88% of Facebook users reported “creeping” their ex-partner following a breakup, with current numbers potentially even higher with more widespread use of social networks.

Instagram has started offering paid subscriptions in Mexico, Japan, and the Philippines, priced from $1 to $2 per month.

​Meta said in January 2026 that it will also offer a premium experience on Facebook and WhatsApp, giving users access to special features and more control over how they share and connect.

Unlock more exclusive Cybernews content on YouTube.