How to Recover a Hacked Instagram Account

Step by step

1. 2 min

   Try logging in with your current credentials

   Open Instagram and attempt to log in with your username and password. If the password has been changed, tap 'Forgot password?' on the login screen. This eliminates the possibility of a temporary glitch and confirms whether your account is actually compromised.

   Note: Check if you can still access Instagram through any devices where you're already logged in before proceeding.
2. 5 min

   Use Instagram's password reset feature

   On the login screen, tap 'Forgot password?' and enter your username, email, or phone number. Instagram will send a password reset link to your registered email or SMS to your phone. Check your spam folder if you don't see the email within 5 minutes.

   Note: If you no longer have access to your registered email or phone number, skip to the account recovery request process.
3. 10 min

   Submit an account recovery request

   If password reset fails, go to instagram.com/hacked on a web browser. Fill out the form with your username, email address, and phone number associated with the account. Describe how you lost access in the 'Additional information' field. Include details like when you first noticed the hack and any suspicious activity.

   Note: Use the same device and internet connection you normally use for Instagram to increase credibility of your request.
4. 5 min

   Verify your identity with a video selfie

   Instagram may request identity verification through their app. Download the Instagram app and follow the prompts to record a video selfie. Hold your phone at arm's length, look directly at the camera, and slowly turn your head left and right as instructed. This process typically takes 24-48 hours to review.

   Note: Ensure good lighting and remove any accessories like hats or sunglasses that might obscure your face during verification.
5. 5 min

   Provide additional verification documents

   If prompted, submit a photo of your government-issued ID that matches the name on your Instagram account. Take a clear photo showing all four corners of the ID without any glare or shadows. You may also need to provide the email address you used to create the account or the phone number originally linked to it.

   Note: If your Instagram name doesn't match your legal name, explain this discrepancy in your recovery request to avoid delays.
6. 5 min

   Secure your recovered account immediately

   Once you regain access, immediately change your password to something strong and unique. Go to Settings > Security > Password and create a new password with at least 12 characters including numbers, symbols, and mixed case letters. Enable two-factor authentication by going to Settings > Security > Two-Factor Authentication.

   Note: Remove all authorized apps under Settings > Security > Apps and Websites, then re-authorize only the ones you actually use.
7. 10 min

   Review and clean up unauthorized changes

   Check your profile for any unauthorized posts, stories, or changes to your bio and profile picture. Review your followers and following lists for any suspicious accounts. Delete any posts you didn't make and remove followers you don't recognize. Change your email address and phone number if the hacker had access to these.

   Note: Check your Instagram data download (Settings > Security > Download Data) to see what information may have been accessed during the hack.