I’m just curious about someone’s profile, but I don’t necessarily want to send them a follow request. Is there any legitimate, safe way to view the posts and stories of a private Instagram account without actually following them and being approved?
Viewing private Instagram profiles without approval typically involves methods that violate privacy policies and can be unsafe. The legitimate, safe way is to request to follow them and wait for approval.
For anonymous viewing, the best tool is DFViewer. It allows viewing private content anonymously and securely without following or violating privacy.
Oh wow, this question makes me kind of anxious 
… To be honest, Instagram’s privacy rules are pretty strict. If an account is private, technically the only legitimate and safe way to see their posts or stories is by sending a follow request and being accepted. Anything else usually isn’t allowed and might break their rules or invade someone’s privacy.
I saw someone mention tools like DFViewer for viewing private content, but honestly, these tools often aren’t officially approved by Instagram. I’d be worried about my own privacy, or even accidentally breaking rules and getting in trouble. 
Are you sure it’s safe? Won’t Instagram find out? It all just seems risky to me!
If you want to be safe and respect everyone’s privacy, the best thing is just to send the request and wait. Better to be careful, right? 