Trump administration visa freeze sparks spike in Instagram deletion searches amid student screening fears
Social media activity comes under scrutiny as Trump administration halts international student visas and hints at potential digital footprint checks.
Global search interest in how to delete Instagram accounts surged by 112% within an hour of the Trump administration's announcement to pause all international student visa applications, according to new data from Google Trends. This rise coincided with reports that U.S. authorities are considering vetting applicants' social media as part of the admissions process.
Searches for "student visa" also increased by 304% during the same time window, suggesting widespread uncertainty among prospective students about their eligibility and application procedures under the evolving policy.
Policy impact extends beyond individual universities
The suspension of visa processing initially applied to new international applicants but has since been broadened to include all students entering the U.S., regardless of institution. This includes well-known universities such as Harvard, which has indicated it may challenge the decision through legal action.
Digital footprint under scrutiny
Alongside the visa pause, speculation has emerged that the U.S. may introduce enhanced scrutiny of applicants’ digital footprints. This may lead to international students erasing online content, including social media profiles, likes, and comments that may be perceived as controversial.
The instagram data suggests prospective students are already taking precautionary steps to manage their online presence. This may reflect growing awareness of how past digital activity, whether political commentary, memes, or social engagemen, can influence eligibility in visa and admissions decisions.
The developments present challenges for higher education institutions in the U.S., which rely on international students for both academic and economic contributions. Admissions processes, already impacted by policy shifts, may now require revised guidance for applicants navigating both paperwork and online presence management.
