Instagram account hacked? Recover and stay safe like this, know the complete step-by-step method

By Samira Vishwas On Feb 14, 2026

In today’s digital era, social media accounts have become an important part of our identity. But due to increasing cyber crimes, Instagram accounts of many people are getting hacked. If your account has been hacked, it is important to take immediate action.

Hackers often gain access to accounts through phishing links, weak passwords, suspicious apps, or unauthorized logins. After this they can change the password, email or account settings.

How to recognize that your account has been hacked

By these signs you can understand that your account has been hacked:

you can’t login
The email or phone number has been changed
Strange posts or messages are being sent from the account.
Password reset emails are coming without request
Followers are receiving suspicious messages

Step 1: Change password immediately

If you are able to login, change the password immediately.

For:

Open Settings
Go to Security
Select Password
Create a new strong password

Step 2: Turn on Two-Factor Authentication

This feature gives additional security to your account.

For:

Go to Settings
Select Security
Turn on Two-Factor Authentication

Step 3: Check Instagram emails

If the email is changed, Instagram sends you an email. You can stop changes by clicking on the “Secure My Account” option in that email.

Step 4: Recover Account through Login Link

If you can’t login:

Open Login Screen
Click on Forgot Password
Enter your username or email
Get login link
Follow the given instructions

Step 5: Get help from Instagram Support

If the login link does not work, you can ask for support from Instagram.

Instagram requires you to verify your identity:

email
phone number
device info
video selfie

Can ask.

Step 6: Remove suspicious apps and accounts

After recovery:

Go to Settings
Open Accounts Center
Remove unknown apps and accounts

How to avoid hacking in future

Keep these things in mind:

keep strong passwords
Keep Two-Factor Authentication On
Do not click on suspicious links
Do not share login information

If your Instagram account gets hacked, there is no need to panic. You can get your account back by following the correct steps. Also, by adopting security measures, you can avoid hacking in future.