What to Do If Your Instagram Has Been Hacked: A Step-by-Step Guide

Instagram is a cornerstone of modern social media marketing and personal connection. But what happens when your account gets hacked? Whether you’re a small business owner or an influencer, a hacked Instagram account can feel devastating. Don’t worry—this guide will help you regain control and protect your account from future threats.

Signs Your Instagram Account Has Been Hacked

Before diving into solutions, let’s identify if your account has indeed been compromised. Common signs include:

• Unfamiliar posts, messages, or activity.
• Your email or phone number linked to the account has been changed.
• You’ve been locked out and can’t log back in.
• Followers are receiving spammy messages from your account.

If you’ve noticed any of these, act quickly to minimize damage.

Step 1: Try Logging In

The first step is to see if you can still access your account. If successful:

1. Immediately change your password to something strong and unique.
2. Review your account activity and remove any suspicious third-party apps linked to your account. This can be done under Settings > Security > Apps and Websites.

If you’re locked out, don’t panic—Instagram offers recovery options.

Step 2: Use Instagram’s Account Recovery Options

If you can’t log in, follow these steps:

1. Tap “Forgot password?” on the login screen.
2. Enter your username, email, or phone number associated with the account.
3. Check your email for a recovery link from Instagram. Follow the instructions to reset your password.

If your email or phone number has been changed, select the “Need more help?” option on the login screen. Instagram may ask you to verify your identity by providing:

• A government-issued ID.
• Recent account details like the creation date or associated email address.

Step 3: Notify Instagram of the Hack

You can report a hacked account directly to Instagram:

1. Visit Instagram’s Help Center (search for "Report a Hacked Account").
2. Fill out the form with details about the issue. Instagram may ask for additional verification steps to confirm your identity.

Step 4: Inform Your Followers

If you suspect hackers have messaged or posted on your account, let your followers know about the breach through another channel (e.g., another social media platform or email). Warn them not to engage with any suspicious links sent from your account.

Step 5: Strengthen Your Account Security

Once your account is restored, it’s crucial to protect it from future hacks:

• Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Go to Settings > Security > Two-Factor Authentication and enable it using an authentication app or SMS.
• Use a Strong Password: Avoid common phrases or reused passwords. Use a mix of uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols.
• Review Third-Party App Access: Remove any apps that you don’t recognize or no longer use.
• Regularly Update Your Password: Set a reminder to change your password every few months.

Step 6: Learn from the Experience

If your Instagram account is a significant part of your business, consider implementing these practices:

• Back up your content regularly to avoid losing valuable posts.
• Train your team (if applicable) on recognizing phishing attempts.
• Invest in professional help if managing your account feels overwhelming. Services like The Winfield Creative specialize in social media management and mentorship, helping you streamline your efforts while maintaining security​​.

Final Thoughts

Getting hacked on Instagram is a nightmare, but with the right steps, you can regain control quickly and protect your account going forward. If you’re a small business owner struggling with time management or unsure how to optimize your social media presence, reach out for expert support. Social media doesn’t have to feel overwhelming, and with the right strategies, you can turn challenges into opportunities.