It can be frustrating when you cannot access one of your social media accounts. Instagram is one of the most used apps around the world. Sometimes you tend to forget your login details or someone wants to hack Instagram. There are steps you can take when these happen.
Forgot password
You can reset your Instagram password in case you forget it. You need your email address, phone number, or Facebook account. If this does not work for you, you can get more help from the Instagram app.
Resetting password
Open the Instagram app to reset your password.
For Android:
- Tap GET HELP SIGNING IN on the login screen. You can find it below LOG IN.
- Choose from the three options:
- USE USERNAME OR EMAIL,
- SEND AN SMS, or
- LOG IN WITH FACEBOOK.
- Enter your information. Follow the onscreen instructions.
For iPhone:
- Tap FORGOT PASSWORD on the login screen. It is above the LOGIN button.
- Choose between USERNAME or PHONE.
- Enter your email address, username, or phone number. Tap NEXT and follow onscreen instructions.
Forgot username
- Check if you enter the correct spelling of your username. Do not include the @ symbol.
- If you think someone changed your username, do the following:
- Check your email. Instagram will notify you there was a change in your account information.
- Ask a friend to visit your profile. Let him or her take a screenshot of your current username.
Two-factor authentication
It would also be better if you turn on this feature of Instagram. It is a security feature to prevent others from accessing your account. You need a special login code or confirm your login attempt each time your Instagram gets accessed from an unrecognized device. You can choose from the two methods below.
- Text message (SMS) codes from your mobile phone, or
- Login codes from a third-party authentication app, like Duo Mobile or Google Authenticator.
Recovery code
Sometimes you cannot receive a code due to connectivity or delivery issues. When you turn on the two-factor authentication feature, you can get a recovery code.
- Go to your profile and tap the three lines for the MENU.
- Then tap SETTINGS.
- Click SECURITY and tap TWO-FACTOR AUTHENTICATION.
- Tap RECOVERY CODES.
You can also cancel your current recovery codes and request a new set. Follow the above instructions and then tap GET NEW CODES.
You need to log in to access the list of recovery codes or get a new list. It would be best to take a screenshot and save them for future purposes.