I need urgent help! Yesterday, I started experiencing issues with my Instagram account. I was getting notifications about new logins, unauthorized email and phone number changes, and 2FA being activated, all while I had my phone with me. Every time I tried to secure my account by removing the new contact info or changing my password, the hackers were too quick and seemed to retain access somehow. Currently, my account is locked after multiple report attempts from friends, but I'm at a loss for what to do next.
I'm looking for advice on several points: How can I ensure other devices can't access my account? Is there a way to force Instagram to remove the hacker's added phone number and 2FA? How can I effectively reach Instagram support? And has anyone successfully dealt with similar hacking issues? Any help would be greatly appreciated!
3 Answers
One thing you should definitely do is reach out to Instagram's support. I know it can take a while, but sometimes they can help you regain access if you explain the situation. Also, while waiting for help, use a different device to log in, and please ensure you’re not using any suspicious password managers—those can be compromised too. If the hackers are based in a different time zone, maybe try to act while they’re inactive, as you said—it might give you the advantage you need.
Make sure your new password is really strong—at least 24 characters if possible, with a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. You can use online password generators to create one. And remember, avoid using any computers that are regularly used by you to access your Instagram. Each step you take to secure your personal computers and devices can really help.
I’ve got a 20-character password now, but I’ll try out a generator for something even stronger!
It sounds like they've probably figured out your password through a leak or something similar. First things first, try resetting your password to a really strong one that’s unique and never used elsewhere. This way, even if they have access, they can't change it easily. After you regain access, log out of all devices, change your password to something random and complex, remove any linked emails/phone numbers, and update your security settings. Don’t forget to secure your email account too, since it’s often the gateway to other accounts. Also, using a 2FA authenticator app instead of SMS can add an extra layer of security.
Thanks for the tips! I’ll definitely use a password manager to keep track of strong passwords going forward.
Good idea! I’ll give it another shot during that time zone window. The more I can do to outsmart them, the better!