Send Private DMs on Instagram Without an Initial Client Message
Hi everyone,
If you want to automatically reply to users who comment on your Instagram Professional posts using Make, you can use the Instagram Private Replies API . This method allows you to bypass the validation of the first message from the client, enabling you to initiate a direct message (DM) without waiting for the user to message you first. You can also customize the payload to continue the interaction seamlessly.
How Private Replies Work
Private Replies allow you to send a single direct message to a person who has commented on your Instagram content (post, ad, reel, or live story).
Important:
- The reply must be sent within 7 days of the comment.
- You can only send one reply per comment.
- After the private reply, the conversation can continue if the user responds (24-hour messaging window).
-Endpoint: POST https://graph.facebook.com/v22.0/{PAGE_ID}/messages
-Headers:
Content-Type: application/json
-Body:
{
"recipient": {
"comment_id": "COMMENT_ID"
},
"message": {
"text": "Thank you for your comment!"
},
"access_token": "PAGE_ACCESS_TOKEN"
}
In my case, I used a message with buttons to customize the payload and enable continuity with other automations.
{
"text": "¿Do you want info of {{8.`2`}}?",
"quick_replies": [
{
"content_type": "text",
"title": "Yes, please",
"payload":"{{8.`2`}}"
},
{
"content_type": "text",
"title": "No, thanks",
"payload": "NO_THANKS"
}
]
}
I hope it helps you