Check if a user is a follower

Overview

The Follower Verification Component (identified in the interface by the technical name check_follower) is a conditional flow control node based on Meta's Graph API. Its main function is to perform an instant and synchronous query on Instagram's servers to validate whether a given user follows or does not follow the brand's business profile. It acts as an audience validator, allowing the creation of gamification dynamics or restricting access to automation branches based on the contact's relationship status.

Configuration Parameters

The component's configuration requires two main pieces of data to perform the information cross-check on the social network:

• Credential: Dropdown menu used to select the authenticated access token for the Instagram Business account. This credential grants the necessary permission for the system to query the interaction list and the business profile database.

• User's Instagram ID (* Required Field): Text input field where the unique numeric identifier or dynamic variable (ex: {{instagram_id}}) that represents the client integrated into the flow.

Visual Builder

The graphical interface is minimalist, focusing exclusively on the API routing fields:

• Direct Input Form: The builder does not require complex selectors and focuses on the mandatory nature of the user identifier (*). Without this destination information, the node prevents the flow from being saved to avoid Meta request failures.

• Bifurcated Output Structure: In the graphical flow editor, inserting this component changes the branch morphology, providing two physical output ports for connecting subsequent blocks:

  • Output A: Is a follower

  • Output B: Is not a follower

Special Operators

The logical properties of this component handle real-time external requests and boolean conditionals:

• Dynamic Injection Mapping: The field User's Instagram ID is prepared to read global variables or payloads inherited from the flow's initial trigger (such as the DM or comment trigger). The engine processes this tag in real time before sending the validation endpoint.

• Binary Conditional Processing: When executed, the system engine pauses the flow for milliseconds to obtain Meta's response (JSON). If Instagram's server confirms the friendship/follower link, the automation transparently routes the contact to the first branch; otherwise, it sends the user to the rejection path.

Practical Examples

The table below demonstrates classic application scenarios for this component in conversational marketing and engagement strategies:

Selected Credential	User ID (Input)	Meta Response (API)	Triggered Output in the Flow	Practical Use Case
@fictitious_store	{{instagram.id}}	User active on the followers list.	Is a follower	The client sends a message in DM asking for a discount coupon. The system validates that they are a follower and immediately releases the promo code.
@fictitious_store	{{instagram.id}}	User not found on the list.	Is not a follower	The user asks for the coupon, but the bot identifies that they do not follow the page. The flow sends a friendly message: "You don't follow us yet! Follow our profile and type the word again to unlock the prize."
@fictitious_brand	{{instagram.id}}	User active on the followers list.	Is a follower