After Facebook, Instagram is the most hacked social media platform, with close to 40,000 accounts compromised each month.
As with any security threat, early detection is crucial to minimize damage.
The good news? It’s relatively easy to identify when your Instagram account has been hacked.
So, how can you tell if unauthorized access has been gained to your account?
Here are five telltale signs that your Instagram account might have been hacked:
1. You Notice Changes You Didn’t Make
If you start seeing alterations to your profile, posts you didn’t create, or worst of all, your followers report receiving strange messages you never sent, it’s a red flag that someone else is using your account.
2. You’re Suddenly Locked Out
Imagine being in the middle of browsing or posting, only to find yourself logged out without warning. This can be a solid indication that someone else might have access to your account.
3. You Receive a Login Attempt Alert
Instagram’s security measures include notifying users of suspicious login attempts. If you receive such a notification, it’s a clear sign that someone is trying to access your account without your permission.
4. Your Email Address Has Been Changed
If the email linked to your Instagram account changes and you didn’t make that update, it’s a definite sign that your account has been hacked.
5. You Can’t Log In with the Correct Password
When you’re certain you’re entering the correct password but are still unable to log in, it’s likely that someone has gained control of your account and altered your credentials.
What to Do If You’ve Been Hacked
Once you are certain that your Instagram account has been hacked, you don’t need to panic. Instead, take these steps:
If You Can Still Log In:
1. Change Your Password Immediately – This action will log out the hacker from your account.
2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): This extra layer of security ensures only you can access your account in the future.
If You Can’t Log In:
- Contact Instagram
Use the Instagram Help Center, available on the app or website.
Once you do, provide as much information as possible, including:
•Your account details
•Changes you’ve noticed
•When you first noticed the issue
You can also reach out to Instagram via other platforms like Twitter or Facebook to expedite the process.
How to Protect Your Account Going Forward
Once you regain access to your account, strengthen its security to prevent future hacking attempts.
Here are some tips:
•Limit Personal Information Sharing: Be mindful of the data you post on social media.
•Keep the Instagram App Updated: Regular updates often include security improvements.
•Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Logins: Hackers often exploit unsecured networks.
•Be Cautious with Links: Don’t click on suspicious links, even if they seem legitimate.
With these precautions, you can protect yourself from hackers and enjoy a safer Instagram experience.
