Getting your Instagram account hacked is frustrating enough, but when your phone number is changed too, it can feel like you’re completely locked out. If this has happened to you, don’t waste time.
First, check your email inbox (especially messages from security@mail.instagram.com), you may still have the option to reverse the changes. Next, use Instagram’s “Forgot password?” feature to request a login link. If that doesn’t work, there’s still hope.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly what steps to take. We’ll also cover how to secure your account once you regain access and share practical safety tips to help prevent future attacks.
Let’s go over what to do when your Instagram account is hacked and your phone number is changed.
Steps to Take If Your Instagram Account Is Hacked and Phone Number Changed
If your Instagram account is hacked and the phone number is changed, immediate action is essential. Below are the crucial steps you should take to recover your account and protect your personal information.
Step 1: Check for Emails from Instagram
Checking your email is essential when you suspect your Instagram account has been hacked, as this is often the first line of defense against unauthorized access.
Start by scanning your inbox, particularly the one linked to your Instagram account. Look for messages from security@mail.instagram.com notifying you of any changes to your phone number or email address.
If you find one, click “Secure my account” immediately to reverse unauthorized changes.
Additionally, if you suspect your email may be compromised, use an email breach checker tool to assess its security, and update your password if it’s been exposed. Your account security depends on it.
Step 2: Request a Login Link
Upon discovering that your Instagram account has been hacked and your phone number changed, the next step involves requesting a login link to regain access.
Begin at the Instagram login screen and tap “Forgot password?” Enter your last known username, email, or phone number. Instagram will then attempt to send you a login link.
If you can’t access the linked contact details, select “Need more help?” This option guides you to submit a support request.
Make certain you use an email address that only you control, as Instagram will use it to contact you for further assistance.
Step 3: Report the Account as Hacked
After confirming that your Instagram account has been compromised, it’s crucial to report the hack directly to Instagram.
Navigate to instagram.com/hacked and select “My account was hacked.” Follow the provided instructions meticulously.
Input as much information as you can, including your previous email or username, to assist in the recovery process.
Step 4: Verify Your Identity
To regain access to your hacked Instagram account, it’s essential to verify your identity, especially if the hacker has changed your phone number.
Instagram may request a video selfie if your account contains personal photos; you’ll need to turn your head in various directions to confirm your identity.
If your account lacks personal images, be prepared to provide details about your original sign-up, such as the device type or email used. You’ll receive further instructions via email.
Step 5: Regain Access and Secure Your Account
Once you’ve regained access to your hacked Instagram account, it’s crucial to act swiftly to secure it.
First, update your password immediately to prevent further unauthorized access. If the hacker linked their own email or phone number, remove them from your account settings.
Next, review your security settings for any vulnerabilities. Scan your account activity and revoke access to unfamiliar third-party apps in the Settings under Apps and Websites.
Finally, verify your contact information to confirm your phone number and email address are accurate and reachable.
Ongoing Safety Tips to Prevent Future Hacks
To safeguard your Instagram account from future hacks, implementing a few key strategies is essential.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Enabling Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) adds an essential layer of security. By using a third-party authenticator app like Google Authenticator or Authy, you require a second code to access your account, even if your password is compromised.
This means that even if a hacker obtains your password, they still can’t log in without the code generated by the app.
Implementing 2FA is a straightforward yet powerful step in protecting your account against unauthorized access, greatly reducing the chances of future hacks and enhancing your overall online security.
Use a Strong Password
While a strong password may seem like a simple measure, it plays an essential role in securing your Instagram account. Weak passwords are easily guessed or cracked using brute force methods.
To enhance your security, create a complex password that combines uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Using a super-strong password generator can help you craft a unique password that meets these criteria.
Avoid using easily obtainable information, like birthdays or names. Remember, the more intricate the password, the harder it is for hackers to infiltrate your account.
Monitor Login Activity
Monitoring your login activity is essential for maintaining the security of your Instagram account. Regularly check the login activity in your account settings to identify any unauthorized access.
If you see a device you don’t recognize, it’s vital to act swiftly, remove that device from your account and change your password immediately. This proactive approach not only helps you regain control but also minimizes the risk of future hacks.
Remove Suspicious Apps
To enhance your Instagram security, regularly remove suspicious apps linked to your account.
Navigate to Settings > Apps and Websites to review the connected applications. Look for anything that seems unfamiliar or unnecessary.
Some apps may disguise themselves as harmless tools, yet they can secretly harvest your login details, compromising your account.
Keep Contact Info Updated
After removing suspicious apps, it’s important to confirm your contact information on Instagram is always up-to-date.
Keeping your phone number and email current is essential for account recovery and security notifications. If you change either, update them on Instagram the same day. This minimizes the risk of losing access to your account and guarantees you receive alerts about any unauthorized activity.
Regularly review your contact info, especially after a security incident, to maintain control over your account. Proactive management of your contact details greatly enhances your overall security posture against future hacking attempts.
I don’t have access to my email or phone number. Can I still recover my account?
What happens if you can’t access your email or phone number? You can still recover your account.
Start by tapping “Need more help?” on the Instagram login screen. Follow the on-screen steps to submit a support request. You’ll be prompted to provide a secure email address for communication.
Instagram won’t use your lost contact information; instead, they’ll request other identifying details to verify your identity. This process may take some time, but it’s essential to provide accurate information for successful recovery.
How does Instagram verify my identity if I’ve lost access to my contact information?
Recovering your Instagram account without access to your email or phone number involves a verification process where Instagram seeks to confirm your identity.
They may ask you to submit a video selfie to prove you’re a real person. If you’ve never posted photos of yourself, Instagram will require you to provide sign-up details, such as your original email, phone number, or information about the device you used to create the account.
This process aims to guarantee that only the legitimate account owner can regain access, utilizing various methods to establish your identity effectively and securely.
What if Instagram rejects my verification video?
If Instagram rejects your verification video, it’s vital to remain calm and consider your next steps. Don’t panic; you can try again, as Instagram allows multiple submissions.
Confirm your next video features proper lighting and captures your face from all angles. Avoid hats or glasses that might obscure your features, as clarity is important for verification.
Review Instagram’s guidelines to avoid previous mistakes and consider recording in a well-lit, distraction-free environment. After making these adjustments, resubmit your video promptly.
Regain Control and Safeguard Your Instagram Account
Recovering your hacked Instagram account, especially when your phone number has been changed, can feel overwhelming, but it’s entirely possible with the right steps.
By acting quickly, verifying your identity, and securing your account, you can regain control and prevent future breaches.
Stay vigilant, use strong passwords, and enable two-factor authentication to protect your online presence.
If you ever lose access again, remember that Instagram provides multiple recovery options. Don’t give up. Your account and personal data are worth protecting.