Instagram is one of the most popular apps in the world. People use it to share photos, chat with friends, and even run business accounts. But sometimes, a big problem happens—your account gets hacked. This means someone else takes control of your account without your permission.

When an account is hacked, you may notice strange posts, unknown messages, or your password not working anymore. This can make you feel worried, scared, and even angry because your personal life is no longer safe.

Don’t panic! Instagram has a way to report a hacked account. By following the right steps, you can inform Instagram, ask for help, and try to get back control of your profile.

In this guide, we’ll explain in simple steps how to report a hacked Instagram account, what you should do if you can’t log in, and how to keep your account safe from hackers in the future.

The first thing you should ask yourself is, “What should I do if my Instagram account is hacked?” The answer is simple: stay calm and check if you can still log in. If you can, quickly go to settings, change your password, and turn on two-factor authentication for extra protection. But if you cannot log in, you need to report the hacked account to Instagram using the “Need more help?” option on the login page.

This is the safest way to recover your account and stop the hacker from using it.

Signs Your Instagram Account Has Been Hacked

Sometimes it’s not easy to know right away if your account is hacked, but there are some clear signs you should watch out for:

• You see posts or stories on your profile that you did not create.
• Your friends or followers say they got strange messages from you.
• You notice your email or phone number linked to Instagram has been changed.
• Your password stops working, and you can’t log in.
• You are logged out from your account on all your devices suddenly.

If you notice one or more of these signs, it’s very likely that someone has hacked your account. The sooner you take action and report it to Instagram, the better chance you have to recover your account and protect your personal information.

Why My Instagram Account Hack?

There are many reasons why your Instagram account may get hacked. Hackers usually look for weak accounts that are easy to break into. Some common reasons are:

• Using a weak password like “123456” or your name.
• Clicking on fake links or scam messages that steal your login details.
• Logging into your account on a public Wi-Fi or unknown device.
• Sharing your password with someone who misuses it.
• Not turning on two-factor authentication, which makes your account more secure.

Hackers often want to steal personal data, send spam, or even control accounts to trick other people. Knowing the main reasons helps you to stay safe and avoid these mistakes in the future.

Steps to Report a Hacked Instagram Account

When your Instagram account is hacked, the first thing you need to do is act fast. The quicker you report it, the higher the chance of getting your account back. Here are the detailed steps to follow:

1. Go to the Instagram Login Page – Open the Instagram app on your phone or visit the Instagram website on a computer.
2. Tap “Forgot Password?” – On the login screen, you will see an option called “Forgot password?”. Click it.
3. Enter Your Details – Type in your username, email address, or phone number linked to the account.
4. Click on “Need More Help?” – If you still cannot log in, choose “Need more help?” below the password reset option.
5. Fill Out the Recovery Form – Instagram will take you to a support page where you can explain that your account was hacked.
6. Provide Proof of Identity – Instagram may ask you to send a verification code, or in some cases, a photo of yourself holding a code to prove the account belongs to you.
7. Submit the Report – After giving all the required details, press submit. Instagram’s team will then review your request.
8. Wait for Instagram’s Response – If your information is correct, Instagram will send you an email with steps to recover your account and set a new password.

👉 Always remember: Use your official email and provide accurate information while reporting. This will make it easier for Instagram to confirm that you are the real owner of the account.

What Happens After Reporting?

Once you report a hacked Instagram account, Instagram takes a few important steps to help you:

1. Review Your Report – Instagram checks the information you gave to confirm that you are the real owner of the account.
2. Send a Response Email – If your details match, you will receive an email from Instagram with instructions on how to reset your password and secure your account.
3. Identity Check (If Needed) – Sometimes, Instagram may ask for a photo of you holding a code or other proof to make sure the account truly belongs to you.
4. Account Recovery – Once your identity is confirmed, Instagram will give you access to your account again. You can then set a new password.
5. Security Checkup – After recovery, Instagram may ask you to review your recent login activity and remove any devices that do not belong to you.

👉 It’s important to follow every step carefully. If Instagram accepts your report, you’ll get your account back. But if the details are wrong or missing, it may take longer or Instagram may reject the request.

How to Recover Your Hacked Instagram Account

Reporting your hacked account is the first step, but the most important part is actually recovering your Instagram account. If you follow the right process, Instagram gives you a fair chance to get back your profile. Here are the detailed steps you should take:

Check Your Email from Instagram

• Whenever your email or password is changed, Instagram sends a security email.
• If your email was changed by the hacker, you will see an option called “Reverse this change.”
• Click it immediately. This will cancel the hacker’s action and help you secure your account.

Reset Your Password

• Go to the Instagram login page and tap “Forgot Password?”
• Enter your username, phone number, or email address linked to your account.
• Instagram will send you a reset link or code to create a new password.
• Always choose a strong password with letters, numbers, and symbols.

Use Verification Code from Instagram

• Sometimes, Instagram will ask you to confirm your identity by sending a code to your registered email or phone number.
• Enter that code to prove you are the real owner.
• Without this step, Instagram will not allow recovery.

Confirm Your Identity with a Photo (If Required)

• In some cases, Instagram may request you to upload a photo of yourself holding a code they provide.
• This step may sound strange, but it is a powerful way for Instagram to make sure the account goes back to the right person.

Secure Your Account After Recovery

• Once you regain access, go to Settings > Security > Login Activity and log out of all unknown devices.
• Turn on & Turn Off Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) to stop hackers from entering again.
• Update your email and phone number in settings so Instagram can contact you easily if something happens in the future.
• Revoke access to any third-party apps that you don’t trust.

👉 By following these recovery steps, you not only take your account back from the hacker but also make it much safer for the future. Always act quickly, because the longer a hacker has access, the more damage they can do.

Tips to Protect Your Instagram from Hackers

Getting hacked is scary, but you can keep your Instagram safe by following some simple tips:

1. Use a Strong Password – Make sure your password is a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using your name, birthday, or 123456.
2. Turn On Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) – This adds an extra security step. Even if a hacker knows your password, they cannot log in without the special code sent to your phone.
3. Don’t Click on Fake Links – Hackers often send messages or emails with links that look real but are not. Always check carefully before clicking.
4. Log Out from Shared Devices – If you use Instagram on a public computer or a friend’s phone, always log out after using it.
5. Keep Your Email Safe – Your Instagram is linked to your email account. If someone hacks your email, they can also hack your Instagram.
6. Update Your App Regularly – Instagram updates often fix security problems. Always keep your app up to date.

👉 By following these simple steps, you can make your Instagram account much harder for hackers to break into.

How to Active Two Step Authentication and remove it

Common Problems and Fixes

Sign	Ease of Fix	Solution
Email Changed	Easy	Click “Reverse this change” in the email from Instagram.
Password Changed	Easy	Reset using “Forgot Password” option.
⚠️ Suspicious Login	Moderate	Change password and enable two-factor authentication (2FA).
Strange Messages Sent	Moderate	Log out from all devices and reset your password.
Unknown Posts/Stories	Moderate	Delete posts and reset your password.
❌ Account Suspended	Difficult	Contact Instagram Support for help.
Unfamiliar Logins	Easy	Log out of all sessions in account settings.
Third-Party Apps	Easy	Revoke access in Settings > Security > Apps and Websites.
Used Public Wi-Fi	Easy	Use a VPN and change your password.
Weak Password	Easy	Create a strong password with letters, numbers, and symbols.

Related Guides You May Find Helpful

If your account has been hacked or you’re worried about your Instagram security, here are some useful guides that can help you stay safe and fix problems:

• Read about [How to Hide Followers on Instagram] if you want more privacy.
• Check our full guide on [Instagram Login Problems and Fixes] to solve login issues quickly.
• Find out why people use the [Close Friends Feature on Instagram] for private sharing.
• Understand [How to Keep Your Instagram Account Secure] with easy safety tips.

👉 These guides are connected to the same topic and will help you not only recover your hacked account but also protect it from future problems.

Conclusion

Getting your Instagram account hacked can be one of the most stressful experiences, but the truth is—you are not helpless. By learning how to report a hacked Instagram account and following the proper recovery steps, you can take back control of your profile. Instagram has built-in tools like “Reverse this change,” password reset options, verification codes, and identity confirmation that make it possible to get your account back, even if hackers try to lock you out.

The key is to act fast. The sooner you report the suspicious activity, the higher your chances of a successful recovery. After you recover your account, it’s just as important to focus on prevention—use a strong password, enable two-factor authentication (2FA), avoid third-party apps, and never log in on public Wi-Fi without protection.

Remember, Instagram security is a shared responsibility. Instagram provides the tools, but it’s up to you to use them wisely. By staying alert, acting quickly, and keeping your account settings updated, you can make sure your Instagram stays safe, secure, and in your hands—not the hacker’s.

FAQs

Q1. How do I know if my Instagram account is hacked?

A: You may notice strange posts, unknown messages, or your password not working. Sometimes, your email or phone number may be changed without your permission. Friends might also tell you that they received weird messages from you. These are all clear signs your account may be hacked.

Q2. What is the first step to take if my account is hacked?

A: The first thing is to stay calm and check if you can still log in. If yes, immediately change your password and turn on two-factor authentication (2FA). If you cannot log in, you must use the “Need more help?” option on the login page to report the account to Instagram.

Q3. Can I recover my Instagram account if my email is changed?

A: Yes. When your email is changed, Instagram usually sends you a notification email. In that message, you will see an option to “Reverse this change.” By clicking it quickly, you can stop the hacker from taking full control and recover your account.

Q4. What if my password is changed by the hacker?

A: If you cannot log in because your password is changed, simply use the “Forgot Password” option on the login page. Enter your email, phone number, or username to reset your password. Instagram will then send you a link or code to create a new password.

Q5. Why does Instagram ask me for a photo with a code?

A: Sometimes, Instagram needs to confirm you are the real account owner. That’s why they ask you to send a photo of yourself holding a code they provide. This step makes sure hackers cannot fake your identity and ensures that the account goes back to the right person.

Q6. How long does it take for Instagram to recover a hacked account?

A: The time may vary. In some cases, if you provide the correct details and proof, Instagram may restore your account within a few hours. But if more verification is needed, it can take a few days. Always make sure your email and phone number are active for faster recovery.

Q7. Can Instagram suspend my account if it’s hacked?

A: Yes, sometimes when hackers misuse your account for spam or illegal activity, Instagram may suspend it for safety. In such cases, recovering the account is more difficult. You must contact Instagram Support and follow their given steps to appeal and restore your account.

Q8. How do I stop hackers from sending strange messages to my followers?

A: If strange messages are being sent, first log out from all devices. Then reset your password and turn on two-factor authentication. This blocks the hacker’s access. After that, inform your friends not to click any links they may have received from your hacked account.

Q9. What if I see unknown posts or stories on my account?

A: Unknown posts mean someone else has access. Immediately delete those posts or stories and reset your password. Then go to your login activity in settings and remove all unfamiliar devices. This ensures only you can use your Instagram again.

Q10. Is using public Wi-Fi safe for Instagram login?

A: No, using public Wi-Fi is risky because hackers can steal your login information. If you have used it, make sure to change your password and enable 2FA. For extra safety, always use a VPN when connecting through public networks.

Q11. How can I make my Instagram account stronger against hackers?

A: Use a strong password with a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. Turn on two-factor authentication for extra safety. Avoid clicking on suspicious links and keep your app updated. Small steps like these make your account much harder for hackers to break into.