RNA interference has been extensively applied to research on insect gene function. Successful application of this  technology requires accurate delivery of interfering agents, such as double-stranded RNA (dsRNA), or short interfering RNA (siRNA), to target organisms. This paper focuses on a unique strategy for delivering dsRNA into plant-feeding insects, namely VIGS (virus-induced gene silencing) technology. Most studies that have used VIGS to investigate gene function have focused on hemipteran and lepidopteran pests. A gene fragment targeting a plant-feeding insect is inserted into the genome of a recombinant virus，which then infects the host plant. Double-stranded RNA can be produced in the host plant through virus replication. When an insect feeds on the host plant, dsRNA is ingested to inhibit the expression of the target gene. Due to the complex interactions among viruses, plants, and insects, several factors can affect the efficiency of this system. In comparison to other dsRNA introducing methods, VIGS technology is less labor-intensive and allows the large-scale screening of genes. Moreover, it has proven highly efficient in suppressing some lepidopteran insect pests that are reported to be refractory to RNAi. The application of VIGS technology to insect RNAi has, however, some limitations. This paper provides a reference for the further development and application of VIGS technology in insect research and pest control, and provides an overview of the mechanisms, current applications, and factors affecting suppression efficiency. The advantages and problems associated with this technology are also discussed so that these can be addressed in future research.