Discovering your Instagram account has been hacked can be both frightening and frustrating. The sudden loss of access to your photos, messages, and connections feels like a digital violation. If your Instagram account gets hacked, immediately request a login link from Instagram, report the hack through their official channels, and change passwords on all your connected accounts to prevent further damage.
Getting your account back might seem overwhelming, but Instagram has established recovery procedures to help victims regain control. The key is acting quickly before hackers can cause more harm by messaging your friends, changing your profile information, or using your account to scam others. Many users have successfully recovered their hacked profiles by following Instagram’s official recovery steps and remaining persistent.
Getting hacked on Instagram can feel overwhelming, especially if your account holds years of memories or is important for your business. But don’t panic! There are clear steps you can take to recover your account and secure it from future attacks.
1. Check for the Hacked Account Warning
Instagram sometimes detects suspicious activity and sends you an email from security@mail.instagram.com. If you received one saying your email address was changed, you might be able to reverse it using the “revert this change” link.
Didn’t get a warning?
No worries—keep reading.
2. Request a Login Link From Instagram
If you can’t log in, try to request a login link directly from Instagram:
- Go to the login screen and tap “Get help logging in” (Android) or “Forgot password?” (iPhone).
- Enter your email, username, or phone number.
- Tap “Send Login Link”.
Check your email or SMS and follow the instructions. If you didn’t receive it, check your spam/junk folder.
3. Report the Account as Hacked
If the login link doesn’t work and you’re locked out, you can report your account as hacked:
- On the login screen, tap “Need more help?”.
- Follow the prompts to report your account.
- Instagram may ask you to verify your identity. They might request:
- A photo of yourself holding a piece of paper with a code.
- The email and phone number you used to sign up.
- The device you used to sign up (phone, tablet, etc.).
4. Check Your Email for a Response
Instagram will email you with further steps after you submit your identity verification. It can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days. Be patient, and keep an eye on your inbox (including spam).
5. Secure Your Account (If You Get Back In)
Once you regain access to your account, take steps to secure it immediately:
- Change your password to something strong and unique.
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA):
- Go to Settings → Security → Two-Factor Authentication.
- Choose to get codes by text or an authenticator app.
- Check your login activity:
- In Settings → Security → Login Activity, look for unfamiliar devices and log them out.
- Remove suspicious apps:
- In Settings → Security → Apps and Websites, remove any apps you don’t recognize.
6. Alert Your Followers
Hackers often use compromised accounts to scam followers. Consider posting a story or feed post explaining your account was hacked and advising your followers to ignore any suspicious messages they may have received from you.
7. Learn How It Happened
- Did you click on a suspicious link?
- Did you reuse passwords?
- Was your email compromised?
Knowing how it happened can help you avoid future hacks.
8. Contact Instagram Support (Last Resort)
If you’re stuck and nothing has worked, try reaching out to Instagram through their Help Center:
Instagram Help Center
Or via Twitter @InstagramComms, where they sometimes respond to user concerns.
Pro Tips to Prevent Future Hacks:
✅ Use unique passwords for every account.
✅ Enable 2FA on Instagram and your email.
✅ Be skeptical of DMs offering brand deals or asking you to click a link.
✅ Regularly review your account’s security settings.
Key Takeaways
- Request a login link and report the hack immediately through Instagram’s official channels when you notice suspicious activity.
- Change passwords on all connected accounts and enable two-factor authentication to secure your digital presence.
- Monitor your account for unusual activity and be wary of phishing attempts claiming to help recover your Instagram.
Recognizing the Signs of a Hacked Instagram Account
Having your Instagram hacked is stressful, but you can get your account back. Act quickly, stay calm, and follow these steps to secure your account and protect it in the future.
Detecting unauthorized access to your Instagram account early can help you take quick action to regain control. Strange behavior on your account often points to a security breach that needs immediate attention.
Unusual Account Activity
If your Instagram account has been hacked, you might notice posts or stories you didn’t create appearing on your profile. Check if there are new followers or accounts you’re suddenly following without your knowledge.
Changes to your registered details are a major red flag. Hackers typically try to modify your account information right away to prevent you from regaining access. Look for changes to your:
- Profile picture or bio
- Username or display name
- Email address or phone number linked to your account
- Password (you suddenly can’t log in)
Strange direct messages sent from your account to your followers might also indicate a compromise. These messages often contain suspicious links that could harm others.
Unrecognized Login Alerts
Instagram typically sends notifications when your account is accessed from a new device or location. Pay close attention to these security alerts, as they provide early warning of potential hacking attempts.
If you receive emails about login attempts from unfamiliar locations, this could mean someone is trying to access your account. Check that these emails are actually from Instagram, as hackers sometimes send fake emails.
Instagram’s “Login Activity” section shows all devices that have accessed your account. To check this:
- Go to your profile
- Tap the menu icon
- Select “Settings and Privacy”
- Tap “Security”
- Select “Login Activity”
Any devices or locations you don’t recognize might indicate your account has been compromised. Instagram allows you to log out from these sessions directly from this screen.
Initial Response to a Compromised Account
Discovering your Instagram account has been hacked requires quick action to minimize damage and regain control. Time is critical during the first few hours after a breach is detected.
Verify Account Status
Start by confirming that your account has actually been compromised. Check if you’re unable to log in with your usual password or if you’ve received email notifications about suspicious login attempts or password changes you didn’t authorize.
Look for unexpected posts or stories on your profile that you didn’t create. These are clear signs that someone else has access to your account. Check your email (including spam folder) for notifications from Instagram about login attempts from new devices or locations.
Try accessing your account from different devices to rule out technical issues. If friends mention receiving strange messages from your account or notice unusual activity, these are additional confirmation that your account has been compromised.
Pay attention to any email notifications about profile changes such as updated phone number, email address, or username changes.
Change Password Immediately
If you still have access to your account, change your password right away. Create a strong, unique password that includes a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.
After changing your Instagram password, update passwords on any linked accounts, especially your email account. Hackers often try to access multiple accounts once they breach one.
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) if you haven’t already. This adds an extra security layer by requiring a code sent to your phone when logging in from a new device.
Review connected apps and revoke access to any third-party applications you don’t recognize or no longer use. These can be potential security vulnerabilities.
Consider using a password manager to generate and store complex passwords securely.
Report to Instagram Support
If you can’t access your account, request help logging in from Instagram’s login screen. Enter your username, email, or phone number associated with the account to begin the recovery process.
Request a security code through email or SMS to verify your identity. If you can’t receive the code because the hacker changed your contact information, select “Need more help?” to access additional recovery options.
Be prepared to provide verification details such as:
- The email address or phone number you signed up with
- The type of device you used when creating your account
- Specific details about your account activity
For faster assistance, contact an Instagram representative directly. Be specific about your situation and include details about when and how your account was compromised.
If necessary, submit an account recovery form with a photo of yourself holding ID to prove your identity.
Securing Your Instagram Account
Taking immediate steps to secure your account is crucial once you suspect a hack. Proper security measures can prevent future unauthorized access and protect your personal information from being compromised.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication
Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an essential extra layer of security to your Instagram account. When enabled, you’ll need both your password and a special code sent to your device to log in.
To set up 2FA:
- Go to your profile and tap the menu icon
- Select Settings and Privacy
- Tap Security
- Select Two-Factor Authentication
- Choose your preferred method (text message or authentication app)
The authentication app method offers stronger protection than SMS codes. Apps like Google Authenticator or Duo generate time-sensitive codes that change frequently.
Remember to save your backup codes in a secure location. These will help you access your account if you lose your phone or can’t receive authentication codes.
Review Account Data for Discrepancies
Regular account reviews help detect unauthorized changes. Check your profile regularly for:
- Unrecognized posts or stories you didn’t create
- Changed profile information (bio, profile picture, etc.)
- New linked accounts or suspicious third-party apps
- Unfamiliar login activity from devices or locations you don’t recognize
Instagram provides a security feature to view your login activity. To access this:
- Go to Settings and Privacy
- Select Security
- Tap Login Activity
If you notice unfamiliar sessions, select “This wasn’t me” and follow the prompts to secure your account. Consider changing your password immediately if anything looks suspicious.
Revise Account Recovery Information
Keeping your recovery information current is vital for regaining access if you’re locked out. Hackers often change this information first to prevent you from recovering your account.
Make sure to:
- Update your email address to one only you can access
- Add a current phone number for recovery options
- Create a strong, unique password that you don’t use elsewhere
You can update your recovery information by going to Settings > Security > Personal Information.
Consider using a password manager to generate and store complex passwords. Set calendar reminders to review your security settings every few months.
If your account has already been compromised, contact Instagram support directly through the app or visit their help center for specialized assistance.
Recovering a Disabled Instagram Account
If your Instagram account was hacked and then disabled, you face a more complex recovery process. Instagram might disable accounts that show suspicious activity or violate community guidelines.
Submit a Video Selfie
When trying to recover a disabled Instagram account, one of the most effective verification methods is submitting a video selfie. This helps Instagram confirm you’re a real person and the legitimate owner of the account.
To submit a video selfie:
- Open the Instagram app and attempt to log in
- Tap “Get help logging in” (or “Forgot password”)
- Enter your username, email, or phone number
- Look for the “Need more help?” option
- Select the video selfie verification option
During the video selfie process, you’ll need to turn your head in different directions as instructed. This helps Instagram’s systems verify your identity against your profile photos. Make sure you’re in a well-lit area and follow all prompts carefully.
Follow Instagram’s Recovery Process
Instagram offers several official channels to recover a hacked account. Start by requesting a security code from Instagram through the login help options.
If your account was both hacked and disabled, you’ll need to:
- Complete an appeal form for disabled accounts
- Provide proof of identity when requested
- Explain that your account was compromised
- Remove any unauthorized Facebook accounts linked through Meta Accounts Center
Be aware that hackers often link their own Meta accounts to maintain control. You’ll need to specifically mention this in your appeal if you notice this happening. Document any suspicious activity you’ve noticed on your account to strengthen your case.
Be Patient and Persistent
Recovery of a disabled Instagram account requires patience. Instagram’s support team handles many cases daily, and reviews aren’t immediate.
If you don’t receive a response within a week, try submitting another appeal. You can also:
- Reach out through Instagram’s official Twitter support
- Try contacting Meta through their Community Forums
- Look for the “My Instagram account was deactivated” option in the help center
Keep all correspondence professional and factual. Provide consistent information across all communications with Instagram support. Many users report success after multiple attempts, so don’t give up if your first appeal is unsuccessful or ignored.
Protecting Yourself from Future Attacks
After recovering your hacked Instagram account, taking preventive measures is essential. These security practices will significantly reduce your risk of facing another account compromise in the future.
Educate Yourself on Phishing Attacks
Phishing remains one of the most common ways hackers gain access to Instagram accounts. These attacks typically arrive as messages that appear to come from Instagram or someone you trust.
Learn to identify suspicious messages claiming your account violated rules or offering verification services. Legitimate Instagram communications never ask for your password through messages or emails.
Watch for telltale signs like misspelled domains (like “instagram-verify.com” instead of “instagram.com”) and urgent requests demanding immediate action.
Be especially cautious of messages with generic greetings rather than using your actual name. Instagram will typically address you by your username in official communications.
Red flags to watch for:
- Messages claiming your account will be deleted
- Requests to “verify” your information
- Links to unfamiliar websites
- Poor grammar or spelling
Avoid Suspicious Links and Software
Never click links from unknown sources, even if they appear to come from friends. Hackers often send malicious links through compromised accounts.
Be wary of third-party apps promising extra followers or analytics. Many of these tools require your login credentials and can steal your account information. Only download software from official app stores like Google Play or Apple’s App Store.
When using your computer:
- Hover over links before clicking to see the actual URL destination
- Don’t enter Instagram credentials on any site except instagram.com
- Avoid public Wi-Fi for accessing sensitive accounts
Install reputable antivirus and anti-malware protection on your laptop or computer. This creates an additional security layer that can detect and block many hacking attempts before they reach you.
Keep Software and Devices Updated
Regular updates aren’t just about new features—they include critical security patches. Keep your phone, computer, and apps updated to the latest versions.
Set your devices to update automatically when possible. This ensures you don’t miss important security fixes that protect against newly discovered vulnerabilities that hackers might exploit.
What to keep updated:
- Phone operating system (iOS/Android)
- Computer operating system (Windows/Mac)
- Instagram app
- Web browsers
- Antivirus software
Remember that outdated software often contains known security flaws that hackers can easily exploit. Even your router’s firmware should be kept current, as it’s your first line of defense against network-based attacks.
Don’t postpone updates—the “remind me tomorrow” button might be convenient, but it leaves your devices vulnerable for longer periods.
Understanding the Role of Devices in Account Security
Your devices play a crucial role in keeping your Instagram account safe. Each phone, tablet, or computer that can access your account is a potential entry point for hackers.
Managing Account Sessions on Multiple Devices
Instagram lets you see all devices where your account is currently logged in. This feature is vital for spotting unauthorized access. To check active sessions, go to your profile, tap the menu icon, select “Settings,” then “Security,” and “Login Activity.”
You’ll see a list of devices with location data and approximate login times. Any unfamiliar devices or locations should raise red flags.
If you spot suspicious activity, tap on that session and select “Log Out.” This immediately removes access from that device. For complete security, you can log out of all sessions at once.
Remember to regularly review your login activity, especially after using public computers or when traveling. This simple habit can help you catch hackers before they cause serious damage.
Secure Your Personal Devices
Your laptop, phone, and tablet need strong security measures to protect your Instagram account. Start by setting up strong screen locks on all your devices – use biometrics when available.
Keep your operating systems updated on your Mac, PC, and mobile devices. These updates often patch security vulnerabilities that hackers exploit. Enable automatic updates whenever possible.
Install reputable antivirus software on your computer and consider security apps for your phone. These tools can detect malware that might steal your login information.
Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks when accessing Instagram. If you must use public networks, consider using a VPN to encrypt your connection. Remove any connected third-party apps from your Instagram account that you don’t recognize or no longer use.
Be cautious about which devices you use to access Instagram. Public computers at libraries or hotels carry higher risks than your personal devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dealing with a hacked Instagram account can be stressful. These common questions address recovery steps, immediate actions, and preventative measures to help you regain and maintain control of your account.
How can I recover my Instagram account after it has been hacked?
To recover your hacked Instagram account, start by requesting a security code. On the login screen, tap “Get help logging in” and enter your username, email address, or phone number associated with your account.
If you’re unable to log in, use Instagram’s recovery options. You can request a login link sent to your backup email or phone number if you previously added these to your account.
For accounts where the email has been changed by the hacker, you can request support from Instagram by verifying your identity. This typically involves providing information about your original email and phone number.
What steps should I take immediately after discovering my Instagram has been compromised?
If you can still log into your account, immediately change your password. Choose a strong, unique password that you don’t use for any other accounts.
Enable two-factor authentication right away to add an extra layer of security. This prevents hackers from accessing your account even if they have your password.
Check your account for any unauthorized changes including profile information, posts, or messages sent to your followers. Delete any content the hacker may have posted.
Is it possible to regain control of my Instagram account if the hacker changes the associated email and password?
Yes, you can still recover your account even if the hacker changed your email and password. Instagram has specific recovery procedures for this situation.
Use the “My login info isn’t working” option on the login page and follow the prompts to verify your identity. You may need to provide the original email address or phone number used when creating the account.
Instagram might also request a selfie video for identity verification in more complex cases. This helps prove you’re the legitimate owner of the account.
How can I contact Instagram support for assistance with a hacked account?
You can reach Instagram support through the Help Center in the app. Go to your profile, tap the menu icon, select “Settings,” then “Help,” and finally “Report a Problem.”
For dedicated hacked account support, you can use the specific hacked accounts flow that Instagram provides, which guides you through the recovery process step by step.
Another option is to open a chat with a representative through Instagram’s help pages. Be very specific about your case and include all relevant details about the hack.
What are the security measures I should implement to prevent my Instagram account from being hacked again?
Use a strong, unique password for your Instagram account. Avoid common phrases, personal information, or passwords you use on other platforms.
Enable two-factor authentication to add an extra security layer. This requires a code from your phone in addition to your password when logging in.
Regularly review your linked accounts and remove any unfamiliar third-party apps that have access to your Instagram. These can become security vulnerabilities.
Be cautious of phishing attempts. Instagram will never ask for your password via email or direct message. Always verify the authenticity of links before clicking.
In the event of a hacked Instagram account, how can I ensure my personal information is protected?
Change passwords for other accounts, especially if you used the same password as your Instagram. Hackers often try compromised passwords on multiple platforms.
Check your email account security since it’s typically linked to Instagram. If hackers access your email, they could request password resets for multiple services.
Monitor your other social media and financial accounts for suspicious activities. Hackers sometimes use information from one platform to target others.
Consider placing a fraud alert on your credit reports if you’re concerned about identity theft. This adds an extra verification step when new accounts are opened in your name.
