What followers_1.json usually means
followers_1.json usually contains accounts that follow you. The useful value is commonly the username inside a nested string_list_data array. Read the followers_1.json guide.
Instagram export troubleshooting
Instagram JSON export changed? followers_1.json, following.json, and string_list_data explained
Instagram export files can look different over time. File names, folders, and nested JSON fields may change, which is why raw compare tools and copied ChatGPT prompts often produce bad unfollower lists. This guide explains the core pieces Unfollio looks for and what to check when your export format looks different.
Last updated July 7, 2026.
Last verified against the current Unfollio export workflow on July 7, 2026.
Reviewed for Instagram export format, JSON/HTML support, and privacy-safe parsing.
Fast answer
If your Instagram JSON export changed, do not compare the raw files line by line. Look for the actual username values inside follower and following files, often under string_list_data. A parser should extract usernames, normalize them, and compare the cleaned lists instead of comparing raw JSON text.
What following.json usually means
following.json usually contains accounts you follow. Comparing this file with your follower file is how tools identify nonfollowers and mutuals. A dedicated following.json page is intentionally deferred until the next content batch.
Got your Instagram ZIP already?
Upload it to Unfollio and see who does not follow back without entering your Instagram password. Your ZIP is read in your browser, and saved audit history is optional.
What string_list_data means
string_list_data is a nested structure Instagram often uses to store values such as usernames, profile URLs, and timestamps. The username is usually the value field.
{
"string_list_data": [
{
"href": "https://www.instagram.com/example_user",
"value": "example_user",
"timestamp": 1729031492
}
]
}Why raw compare tools break
Raw compare tools do not understand Instagram’s export structure. They may compare JSON punctuation, URLs, timestamps, or folder names instead of usernames. That can make the result look larger, smaller, or completely wrong.
What to do if your export looks different
- - Confirm you selected “Followers and following.”
- - Confirm the date range is “All time.”
- - Confirm you chose JSON if available.
- - Upload the original ZIP instead of copying raw text.
- - If the result looks wrong, request a fresh export.
What files are in Instagram exports as JSON?
The Instagram data export JSON format is a ZIP of folders and JSON files, not one single follower list. For follower analysis, the most important files are usuallyfollowers_1.jsonandfollowing.json.
Instagram may also include files for pending follow requests, recently unfollowed profiles, blocked profiles, and other account activity. A safe parser should identify the relationship files first, extract usernames from nested values, then ignore unrelated JSON so old timestamps or profile URLs do not pollute the comparison.
Related guides
Instagram export analyzer
Let Unfollio extract usernames instead of comparing raw JSON blobs.
Download a fresh export
Use the current Accounts Center settings for a clean ZIP.
Export wrong or incomplete
Check missing files, strange counts, and partial downloads.
ChatGPT list wrong
See why copied prompts often misread full Instagram exports.
Privacy proof
Understand saved audit history and wipe controls.