How to Recover Hacked Instagram Account 2023? A Complete Guide
by Ushapriyanga | Updated Jun 28, 2023
Instagram is a popular social networking service owned by the American company Meta Platforms. It primarily focuses on photo and video sharing. The platform allows users to upload media, such as photos and videos, which can be edited using filters and organized using hashtags and location tags. Users can choose to share their posts publicly or with specific followers whom they have approved.
On Instagram, users can explore content posted by others based on tags and locations. They can view trending posts, like photos, and follow other users to see their content in their personalized feeds. Over time, Instagram has introduced various features to enhance the user experience.
Initially, the platform only allowed square (1:1) aspect ratio photos with a width of 640 pixels, matching the display of iPhones at the time. However, in 2015, this restriction was relaxed, and the maximum resolution increased to 1080 pixels.
How to Recover Hacked Instagram Account 2023?
The primary indication that your Instagram account has been hacked is when you are unable to log in using your usual login credentials. If you encounter this issue, it is likely that a hacker has breached your account and taken control, resulting in your inability to access it. To regain control of your Instagram account, you will need to follow the steps outlined below.
Occasionally, hackers may attempt to keep their intrusion undetected, without alerting you to the fact that your account has been compromised. However, certain evident signs can suggest that someone else has gained unauthorized access to your Instagram account
Unauthorized Password Reset Email:
Receiving a password reset email that you didn't request indicates that someone is attempting to access your account. It may also suggest that your email account has been compromised, potentially jeopardizing your other online accounts. Take action by updating and securing all your account passwords and enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) with an authenticator app.
Email Change Notification:
If you receive an email from Instagram stating that your email address has been changed, it confirms that your account has been hacked. The scammer aims to prevent you from regaining access to your account by altering the associated email. Make sure to reject the email change from the original email account linked to your Instagram account. Beware of phishing scams and verify that all official Instagram emails originate from security@mail.instagram.com.
Suspicious Login Attempt Alert:
Instagram notifies you of suspicious login attempts when scammers try to access your account from different locations. To check if someone else is using your Instagram account, log into the Instagram app and navigate to Profile > Settings > Security > Login Activity. Review the login activity and if any unfamiliar locations are detected, select "This Wasn't Me" to log out your account from that device. On desktop, access your Login Activity via Profile > Settings > Login Activity.
Unusual Messages Sent to Friends and Followers:
Hackers often try to conceal the fact that they've compromised your Instagram account in order to scam your friends. They may send messages to your contacts, aiming to steal their login credentials or involve them in fraudulent schemes, such as crypto investments. If your friends report receiving strange messages from your account, check your account activity promptly.
Unrecognized Posts and Comments:
If you notice notifications about posts or comments that you don't recall creating, it means your account has been compromised. Scammers impersonate you by making unauthorized posts and comments, typically with the intention of deceiving your friends and followers.
Remember, if your Instagram account has been hacked, it's crucial to remain vigilant as your other online accounts, email, and even bank account may also be at risk. Consider using identity theft protection services like Aura to safeguard your identity against scammers.
How to Check Instagram Account has Been Hacked?
Here are some common signs that indicate a hacked Instagram account:
- Inability to log in with the correct credentials.
- Unauthorized posts on your account.
- Changes to your account information without your permission.
- Notifications of suspicious login attempts from unknown locations.
- Reports from friends and followers about receiving spam or phishing messages from your account.
- Restricted access to account settings and inability to make changes.
How to Recover Hacked Instagram Account 2023-FAQs
The most obvious sign is when your login credentials no longer work. Additionally, you may receive password reset emails that you didn't request, notice changes to your account email, receive suspicious login attempt alerts, or hear from friends about strange messages from your account.
It indicates that someone is trying to access your account. Update and secure all your account passwords, enable two-factor authentication (2FA) with an authenticator app, and ensure the security of your email account.
This confirms that your account has been hacked. Reject the email change from the original email account associated with your Instagram account
Log into the Instagram app, go to Profile > Settings > Security > Login Activity. Review the login activity and select "This Wasn't Me" for any unfamiliar locations to log out your account from those devices. On desktop, access your Login Activity via Profile > Settings > Login Activity.
Check your account activity immediately. Hackers often target your friends to scam them. Inform your friends that your account has been hacked and take necessary steps to secure your account.