Losing access to your Instagram account can be frustrating, whether itâs due to a forgotten password, hacking, or your account being disabled. But donât worryâthere are proven ways to recover Instagram account quickly and securely. In this guide, weâll walk you through step-by-step methods to restore your Instagram account, whether youâve lost access to your email, phone number, or both.
From resetting your Instagram password to contacting Instagram support, weâve covered everything you need to know to regain control of your account. Whether youâre dealing with a hacked Instagram account, a disabled profile, or login issues, this guide will help you troubleshoot and recover access efficiently.
For more in-depth tutorials on Instagram, check out our Instagram section. If you’re looking for recovery guides for other platforms, visit our Social Media category. Now, letâs dive into the best ways to recover your Instagram account today.
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ToggleWhy You Lost Access to Your Instagram Account
Before diving into the Instagram account recovery process, it’s important to understand why you lost access in the first place. Identifying the cause will help you choose the right recovery method and prevent future issues. Here are the most common reasons why users lose access to their Instagram accounts:
1. Forgotten Password
One of the most common reasons for being locked out of your account is simply forgetting your password. If you haven’t enabled password autofill or stored it in a password manager, you may need to reset it.
2. Hacked Instagram Account
Cybercriminals often target social media accounts to steal personal information or spread spam. If you notice suspicious activities such as unknown posts, messages, or login attempts, your Instagram account might be hacked.
3. Disabled Instagram Account
Instagram may disable accounts for violating community guidelines or terms of service. This can happen due to posting inappropriate content, using banned hashtags, or being reported by multiple users.
4. Login Issues & Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) Problems
If you’ve enabled two-factor authentication (2FA) but lost access to your registered phone number or authentication app, logging in can be challenging. Other login errors, such as âYour account has been compromised,â can also block access.
5. Account Deactivated or Deleted
If you manually deactivated your account, you can log in anytime to reactivate it. However, if your account was permanently deleted, recovery is impossible.
Now that weâve identified the reasons, letâs move on to the step-by-step guide on how to recover Instagram account in different scenarios.
How to Recover Instagram Accountâ Updated for 2025
With evolving Instagram policies and increased security measures, the process of recovering your account may vary depending on the issue. Below is an updated, step-by-step guide based on the latest best practices to help you quickly regain access to your Instagram account.
1. For Disabled Instagram Accounts
If your account was disabled due to a violation of Instagramâs guidelines or by mistake, you have a limited window of opportunity to appeal:
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Act Quickly:
Instagram allows you to request an appeal only within 30 days of your account being disabled. After this period, the account is permanently deleted. -
How to Appeal:
- Prepare your account details (username, email, and any relevant information that proves your identity).
- Email your appeal to [email protected] and [email protected].
- Clearly explain why you believe your account was mistakenly disabled without admitting fault if youâre confident the suspension was in error.
- Wait for Instagramâs response, which usually takes between 24 to 72 hours.
Note: Ensure that you review Instagramâs community guidelines before submitting your appeal to understand potential reasons behind the deactivation.
2. Recovering a Hacked Instagram Account
If your account has been compromised, immediate action is crucial to secure your information:
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If You Still Have Access to Your Account:
- Go to your profile and tap the three horizontal lines in the upper right corner.
- Select Help and then Report a Problem.
- Choose Report a Problem Without Shaking and provide a detailed explanation that you suspect your account has been hacked.
- Upload any available evidence to support your claim.
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If Youâve Lost Access to Your Account:
- Use the Forgot password? option on the login screen.
- Enter your username, email, or phone number.
- When prompted, click Need more help? and follow the on-screen instructions, which may include verifying your identity with a selfie video or answering security questions.
- Alternatively, send an email to [email protected] reporting that your account has been hacked.
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Additional Step via the Help Center:
Visit Instagramâs Help Center, navigate to Privacy, Security & Reporting, and click on Hacked Instagram Account. Follow the instructions on the âI Canât Log Inâ page to receive a reset code via your registered email.
Tip: Once recovered, immediately change your password and enable two-factor authentication to protect against future hacks.
3. Recovering Your Account Using Username
If you cannot recall which email or phone number was linked to your account, try using your username for recovery:
- On the login page, tap Forgot password?
- Choose Search by Email insteadâInstagram will display a hint of the email address associated with your account.
- If the hint helps you remember, proceed with the password reset process by receiving a reset link or code via that email.
Note: This method can be particularly helpful if you have changed your contact details recently.
4. Recovering Your Account Using Phone Number
When your registered email is inaccessible, you can opt to recover your account via your mobile number:
- On the login screen, tap Forgot password?
- Select Search by mobile number instead.
- Enter your mobile number to receive a verification code via SMS.
- Enter the code on the Instagram page and follow the prompts to set a new password.
Tip: Make sure the phone number entered is the one currently active and previously linked to your Instagram account.
5. Recovering Your Account Using Email
If your phone number isnât an option, email recovery remains a reliable method:
- Tap Forgot password? on the Instagram login page.
- Choose Search by Email instead and type in your email address.
- Instagram will send a reset link or verification code to that email.
- Click the link or enter the code, then create a new, strong password to secure your account.
6. Additional Considerations for Hacked Accounts
For cases where your account is completely inaccessible and you suspect hacking:
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Report via the App:
If possible, use the in-app Report a Problem feature to provide detailed information. -
Verify Your Identity:
Be prepared to verify your identity through methods such as a selfie video or answering security questionsâthis is increasingly common in Instagramâs recovery process. -
Follow Up:
If you do not receive a response within 72 hours, consider resubmitting your request or trying from a different device/IP address to avoid potential blocks from repeated recovery attempts.
By following these updated steps, you can significantly increase your chances of successfully recovering your Instagram account, whether it has been disabled, hacked, or locked due to forgotten details. Always remember to secure your account after recovery by updating your password and enabling extra security features like two-factor authentication.
Contact Instagram Support for Account Recovery
If youâve tried the previous recovery methods and still canât access your Instagram account, your best option is to contact Instagram Support directly. Instagram provides different ways to reach out for help, depending on your issue.
1. How to Submit an Appeal for Disabled Instagram Accounts
If your account was disabled by Instagram, you can submit an appeal to request reactivation:
- Go to Instagramâs Help Center.
- Select âMy Instagram account was deactivatedâ.
- Fill out the appeal form, including your username, email, and an explanation of why your account should be restored.
- Submit the form and wait for Instagramâs response (typically within 24-72 hours).
- If required, follow further instructions, such as verifying your identity through a selfie video or additional details.
Tip: Be polite and provide a clear, honest reason in your appeal. Avoid admitting to any guideline violations if you believe your account was wrongly disabled.
2. How to Report a Hacked Instagram Account to Support
If your Instagram account was hacked, and you canât log in, report it directly to Instagram:
- Go to Instagramâs hacked account recovery page.
- Tap âMy account was hackedâ and follow the steps.
- If prompted, enter your last known email or phone number linked to the account.
- Instagram may ask you to provide a selfie video to verify your identity.
- Wait for an email with further instructions on recovering your account.
Note: If the hacker changed your login credentials, look for any emails from [email protected] regarding changes. If available, you can reverse those changes by clicking on the provided link.
3. How to Speed Up the Instagram Recovery Process
Sometimes, Instagramâs support team may take a while to respond. Hereâs how to speed up the process:
- Submit multiple appeals: If you donât hear back within 72 hours, submit another request.
- Use a different device/IP address: Sometimes, Instagram blocks repeated recovery attempts from the same location.
- Reach out via Facebook Support: Since Instagram is owned by Meta, you can try contacting Meta Support for assistance.
- Check spam/junk folders: Instagramâs response email may have been filtered out of your inbox.
If none of these methods work, you might need to create a new Instagram account and take precautions to prevent losing access in the future. But before that, letâs look at common Instagram login issues and how to fix them.
Fix Instagram Login Issues â Canât Access Your IG?
If youâre unable to log into your Instagram account, the issue might not always be related to hacking or a forgotten password. Sometimes, technical glitches or security settings can prevent you from accessing your account. Here are the most common Instagram login issues and how to fix them.
1. Instagram Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) Problems
If you enabled two-factor authentication (2FA) but lost access to your authentication app or phone number, try these solutions:
Solution 1: Use Backup Codes
- Check your saved Instagram backup codes (you received them when enabling 2FA).
- Use one of the codes to log in.
- Once logged in, go to Settings > Security > Two-Factor Authentication to update your phone number or disable 2FA temporarily.
Solution 2: Request a Login Code via Email
- On the Instagram login page, enter your username and password.
- When asked for the 2FA code, click Need help?
- Choose Get a login code via email (if available).
- Check your email for a temporary login code and enter it to access your account.
Tip: After recovering your account, update your phone number and save your backup codes in a secure place.
2. âYour Account Has Been Compromisedâ Error â Fix It Now
If Instagram detects suspicious activity, you might see the error message âYour account has been compromisedâ, preventing you from logging in. To fix this:
- Try resetting your Instagram password using the Forgot password? option.
- Check your email for a security notice from Instagram ([email protected]). If available, click the provided link to reverse the changes.
- If you still canât access your account, follow the steps in the Recover Hacked Instagram Account section above.
3. Instagram Says âUser Not Foundâ When Logging In
This error usually means one of the following:
- You entered the wrong username (double-check your spelling).
- Your account was temporarily disabled (try logging in again in 24-48 hours).
- Instagram suspended or deleted your account for violating community guidelines.
Tip: If you believe your account was wrongly disabled, follow the steps in the Restore Disabled Instagram Account section to submit an appeal.
4. Instagram App Glitches or Server Issues
If Instagram isnât letting you log in due to technical problems, try these fixes:
- Update the Instagram app to the latest version.
- Clear the app cache (on Android: Settings > Apps > Instagram > Clear Cache).
- Try logging in from a different device or browser.
- Check if Instagram is down by visiting Downdetector.
By troubleshooting these common Instagram login issues, you can quickly regain access to your account. To ensure this doesnât happen again, letâs explore some security tips to prevent future account loss.
Prevent Future Instagram Account Loss â Security Tips
Recovering your Instagram account can be frustrating, so itâs essential to take precautions to prevent future access issues. By following these security tips, you can protect your account from hacking, accidental lockouts, and login problems.
1. Enable Two-Factor Authentication on Instagram
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security to your account. If someone tries to log in, theyâll need both your password and a verification code sent to your phone or authentication app.
How to Enable 2FA on Instagram:
- Open Instagram and go to Settings.
- Tap Security > Two-Factor Authentication.
- Choose a security method:
- Authentication App (e.g., Google Authenticator) â Recommended
- SMS Code (sent to your phone number)
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup.
- Save your backup codes in a safe place for emergency access.
Tip: Use an authentication app instead of SMS, as SIM card swapping attacks can compromise your security.
2. Best Practices to Keep Your Instagram Account Safe
To avoid future Instagram account recovery issues, follow these best practices:
- Use a Strong Password: Combine uppercase & lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.
- Avoid Using Public Wi-Fi for Login: Hackers can intercept your login details.
- Donât Click Suspicious Links: Phishing scams often trick users into entering their credentials.
- Keep Your Email Secure: Use 2FA on your email account to prevent hackers from changing your Instagram password.
- Monitor Login Activity: Check Settings > Security > Login Activity to ensure no one else has accessed your account.
- Be Cautious with Third-Party Apps: Only link trusted apps to your Instagram account.
3. Regularly Update Your Recovery Information
Ensure your email address and phone number are always up to date in case you ever need to recover your Instagram account.
How to Update Your Recovery Info:
- Open Instagram and go to Settings.
- Tap Account > Personal Information.
- Update your email and phone number.
By implementing these security measures, you can prevent Instagram account loss and avoid the hassle of recovery in the future. However, if you still have questions, check out our next section where we answer frequently asked questions about Instagram account recovery.
FAQs â Common Questions About Instagram Account Recovery
Many users face challenges when trying to recover an Instagram account. Below are the most frequently asked questions (FAQs) based on real user searches, along with clear answers to help you regain access to your account.
1. How long does it take to recover a hacked Instagram account?
It depends on the method used. If you reset your password via email or phone, you can recover your account immediately. If you submit an appeal for a hacked or disabled account, Instagram may take 24 to 72 hours to respond.
2. Can I recover my Instagram account without an email or phone number?
Yes! If you no longer have access to your email or phone number, you can:
- Tap âForgot password?â on the login page and enter your Instagram username.
- Select âNeed more help?â and follow the steps.
- Instagram may ask you to verify your identity with a selfie video.
3. What should I do if Instagram disabled my account for no reason?
If your Instagram account was disabled but you believe it was a mistake:
- Go to Instagramâs Help Center.
- Submit an appeal form with your account details.
- Wait for Instagramâs response (usually within a few days).
4. My Instagram account was hacked, but the hacker changed my email and phone. How can I recover it?
If the hacker changed your login credentials:
- Check your email for a security alert from [email protected] and reverse the changes.
- Go to Instagramâs hacked account recovery page and follow the recovery steps.
- If you canât access your account, submit a report to Instagram and verify your identity.
5. What if I deactivated my Instagram account? Can I reactivate it?
Yes! If you temporarily deactivated your account, simply log in again, and Instagram will reactivate it. However, if you permanently deleted your account, recovery is not possible.
6. How can I contact Instagram support for help?
You can contact Instagram Support by:
- Visiting Instagramâs Help Center and submitting a request.
- Reporting your issue via the Instagram app (Settings > Help > Report a Problem).
- Using Facebookâs Meta Support for additional assistance.
These are the most common questions about Instagram account recovery. If you still need help, follow the detailed step-by-step recovery guide in this article to get your Instagram account back quickly.
Now, letâs wrap things up with a quick conclusion!
Conclusion â Get Back Your Instagram Account Easily
Losing access to your Instagram account can be stressful, but with the right recovery steps, you can regain control quickly. Whether your account was hacked, disabled, or locked due to login issues, this guide has provided step-by-step solutions to help you recover your Instagram account in no time.
To summarize:
- Forgot your password? Reset it via email or phone.
- Hacked account? Use security emails or Instagramâs hacked account recovery page.
- Disabled account? Submit an appeal to Instagram Support.
- No email or phone access? Try username-based recovery or identity verification.
- Login issues? Fix two-factor authentication problems and Instagram errors.
For ongoing protection, enable two-factor authentication (2FA), keep your email and phone updated, and avoid phishing scams. Check out more Instagram guides in our Instagram section or explore recovery tips for other platforms in our Social Media category.
By following these steps, youâll ensure a smooth and secure Instagram experience without worrying about losing access again. If you found this guide helpful, feel free to share it with others who might need help recovering their Instagram accounts!
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