How to Get Back a Hacked Instagram Account

Getting your Instagram account hacked can be a frustrating and worrying experience. Fortunately, Instagram provides a variety of tools and steps you can take to regain control. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the recovery process and secure your account against future attacks.

Step 1: Identify the Signs of a Hacked Account

Before jumping to conclusions, ensure your account has indeed been hacked. Common signs include:

• Unauthorized Posts: Seeing posts you didn’t make.
• Password Changes: Being unable to log in with your password.
• Email Changes: Receiving an email about a change in email address.
• Unfamiliar Account Activity: Noticing likes, follows, or comments that you didn’t do.

Step 2: Check Your Email

If you suspect your account has been hacked, check your email inbox associated with your Instagram account. Look for emails from Instagram notifying you of changes to your account (e.g., email or password changes).

• Revert the Changes: If you received an email about a change you didn’t make, you might be able to undo this change directly from the email. Look for a link in the email to revert the changes.

Step 3: Request a Login Link from Instagram

If you’re unable to log in, you can request a login link from Instagram.

1. Open the Instagram app on your mobile device.
2. On the login screen, tap “Get help logging in” (on Android) or “Forgot password?” (on iOS).
3. Enter your username, email, or phone number associated with your account.
4. Tap “Next.” Instagram will send you a login link to your email or phone.

Step 4: Verify Your Identity

If the login link doesn’t work, you may need to verify your identity.

1. Open the Instagram app and go to the login page.
2. Tap “Need more help?”
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to submit a support request. You may need to provide the email address and phone number associated with your account, and upload a photo of yourself holding a piece of paper with a code sent to you by Instagram.

Step 5: Secure Your Account

Once you regain access to your account, take immediate steps to secure it:

Change Your Password

1. Go to your profile and tap the menu icon (three lines) in the top right corner.
2. Tap “Settings,” then “Security,” and “Password.”
3. Enter your current password followed by your new password.

Enable Two-Factor Authentication

1. Go to “Settings,” then “Security,” and tap “Two-Factor Authentication.”
2. Tap “Get Started” and choose your security method (e.g., text message or an authentication app).
3. Follow the instructions to complete the setup.

Check Login Activity

1. Go to “Settings,” then “Security,” and tap “Login Activity.”
2. Review the list of locations where your account has been logged in.
3. If you see unfamiliar locations, tap the three dots next to the location and select “Log Out.”

Also Check

Review Third-Party Apps

1. Go to “Settings,” then “Security,” and tap “Apps and Websites.”
2. Review the list of active apps and websites that have access to your account.
3. Remove any apps you do not recognize or no longer use.

Step 6: Report the Hack to Instagram

If you continue to experience issues or believe your account is still compromised, report the hack to Instagram.

1. Go to the Instagram Help Center on a web browser.
2. Navigate to “Privacy and Safety Center,” then “Report Something,” and select “Hacked Accounts.”
3. Follow the prompts to report your account and receive further assistance.

Step 7: Prevent Future Hacks

Use a Strong, Unique Password

• Create a complex password using a mix of letters, numbers, and special characters.
• Avoid using easily guessable information such as birthdays or common words.

Be Wary of Phishing Attempts

• Do not click on suspicious links or download attachments from unknown sources.
• Always verify the authenticity of emails or messages claiming to be from Instagram.

Regularly Update Your Password

• Change your password periodically to reduce the risk of being hacked.

Stay Informed

• Follow Instagram’s official blog or help center for updates on security practices and new features.

Conclusion

Recovering a hacked Instagram account can be stressful, but by following these steps, you can regain control and enhance your account’s security. Always stay vigilant and proactive to protect your personal information and online presence.

If you found this guide helpful, consider sharing it with friends and family to help them stay secure on Instagram. Happy and safe social networking!