How to Recover a Hacked Instagram Account

According to a report by ITRC, around 1.1M social media accounts were hacked in 2022, out of which 85% were successful attempts of hacking Instagram accounts. Well, in 2024 we're all living an online life, and our accounts contain sensitive data — from passwords to pictures. So when somebody hacks our beloved social media accounts like Instagram, it's not just annoying but also quite a nerve-racking experience.

But don't worry - if you find yourself in the same boat, there are steps you can take to recover your hacked Instagram account and keep your memories and personal data safe. Now let me show you the easy steps needed so that next time some hacker tries their luck with invading your Insta profile -- they know who the real champion is!

There are two possibilities if your Instagram account is hacked:

Reason #1: Being able to use your hacked Instagram account
Reason #2: Completely locked out of your hacked Instagram account

Understand the Symptoms of Hacked IG Account

If someone is hacking your Instagram account of yours, there are some tell-tale signs to look out for. These can include strange posts appearing on your feed, requests for money or personal information from people you don’t know, changes to your password, and a decrease in followers or engagement.

Take prompt action if you notice these indications. Taking action right away to report an Instagram account hack can help keep your account secure. And if you find yourself in this situation, remember that you’re not alone. Many people have been victims of online hacking and you can take steps to protect yourself moving forward.

Also Read: Fix Instagram “Something Went Wrong Creating Account”

How to Recover Hacked Instagram?

Here's a detailed guide on how to recover when the hacker tries hacking an Instagram account, but still you are able to access your account.

Way out #1: Change Your Password

The first and most important step to recover a hacked Instagram account is to change your password immediately. This will stop future attempts to access your accounts. Follow these steps to change your password:

Go to your profile by tapping on the icon in the bottom right corner of your screen.
Open the menu by tapping three horizontal lines in the top right corner
Select "Settings" at the bottom of the menu.
Select "Security" from the list of options.
Tap "Password" and enter your new password.
Tap "Save" to confirm the changes.

Way out #2: Check Your Login Activity

After changing your password, you should check your login activity to see if anyone else has accessed your account. This will help you make sure that someone else has logged into your account or not. Here's how to check your login activity:

Go to your profile by tapping on the icon in the bottom right corner of your screen.
Open the menu by tapping three horizontal lines in the top right corner.
Select "Settings" at the bottom of the menu.
Select "Security" from the list of options.
Tap "Login Activity" to see the recent activity.

If you witness any questionable activity, click "This Wasn't Me" and follow the prompts to secure your account.

Way out #3: Turn on Two-Factor Authentication

By enabling two-factor authentication, you’ll have a bi-layered security shield. It requires you to enter a code sent to your phone or email when you log in from a new device. Follow these steps to enable two-factor authentication:

Go to your profile by tapping on the icon in the bottom right corner of your screen.
Tapping three horizontal lines in the top right corner of your screen.
Select "Settings" at the bottom of the menu.
Select "Security" from the list of options.
Tap "Two-Factor Authentication" to enable the feature.

Way out #4: Contact Instagram

In case you continue to notice any suspicious activities, get in touch with Instagram support. Here's how to contact Instagram:

Go to your profile
Tap the three horizontal lines in the top right corner.
Select "Settings" at the bottom of the menu.
Select "Help" from the list of options.
Click "Report a Hacked Account"

Way out #5: Check for any email from Instagram

If someone changed your email, you may have received an email from security@email.instagram.com to inform you. Don't forget to check the junk folder.

Undo this activity by tapping "Secure my account" in the mail.

In case your password has also been changed and you can't change your email address now, ask for a login link or security code from Instagram.

Also Read: Best Instagram Story Downloader

Way out #6: Requesting a login link from Instagram

Instagram has to make sure that you are the real owner of the account. Follow these steps to request a login link:

Click "Get help logging in" (if Android) or "Forgot Password" if you have an iPhone or web browser.
Enter the username, email address, or phone number that was linked to your account and click "Next". If you are unable to access using this information, enter the information you used most recently. Then click "Can't reset your password?" below the "Next" button.
Choose between an email address or phone number and click "Next"
Click the login link sent to your email or phone number and proceed.

Way out #7: Requesting a Security Code

If the login link method is not working for you, try requesting a security code from Instagram.

For Android:

To log in, tap on the "Get help logging in" button.
Enter your username, email address, or phone number.
Select the contact method you prefer and click "Send security code."
In case you don't receive the code, choose "I can't access this email or phone number."

For iOS:

Tap on "Need more help?" if you're experiencing trouble logging in.
Choose your preferred contact method to receive the security code.
If the security code doesn't arrive, select "I can't access this email or phone number."
After submitting your request, Instagram will send an email with further steps to take.
Don’t forget to ensure that your email account is secure and reliable for receiving login information. In case of email hacking, scammers can evade all of these steps and access your account.

Way out #8: Inform Your Loved Ones Regarding the Hacking Attempt

If your account is in someone’s access, he can extend his illegal activities by hacking Instagram followers’ devices and accounts connected to you. This is done by sending phishing links. These links are typically disguised as legitimate websites or emails in order to trick users into revealing their confidential information. To abstain the hacker from hacking Instagram followers' private information, let them know as soon as possible regarding the ongoing situation.

Also Read: Fix Instagram Reels and Stories not working

How can I recover a hacked Facebook account through an Instagram account?

Unfortunately, you cannot directly recover a hacked Facebook account through an Instagram account. However, you can try the following steps to regain access to your hacked Facebook account:

Way out #9: Visit the Login Page and Select the "Forgot Password" Option

Enter the email address or phone number associated with your hacked Facebook account and click "Search."

Select the email address or phone number that you have access to and choose the "No longer have access to these" option.

Facebook will ask you to provide extra details to confirm your identity. Follow the on-screen instructions and provide as much information as possible, such as your previous passwords, date of birth, and friends' names.

Once you've completed the verification process, Facebook will review your information and determine whether to grant you access to your account.

After successfully recovering your hacked Facebook account, ensure that you update your password and activate two-factor authentication to prevent any future hacking attempts.

Note: If you're unable to recover hacked Facebook account through Instagram or the above method, you can report it to Facebook and seek their help to regain access. You can also report the hacking incident to the authorities if you suspect criminal activity.

Bottom Line: How to Recover a Hacked IG Account?

There you have it! Recovering your hacked Instagram account can be a daunting task, but with these tips and tricks, you're now armed with the knowledge to get your account back in no time. Remember to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions to prevent future hacking attempts. Always use strong passwords, enable two-factor authentication, and be mindful of suspicious activity on your account.

About the Writer

Qudsia Ehtram is a Veteran Content Creator at Digital Aimz and a seasoned creative head at QD Writing Services. She is a ghostwriter of 30 novels for US audiences and holds 27 years of experience under her wings. Cherry on top, she is handling working for a number of brands as a Social Media Consultant.