Your Instagram account holds your photos, your messages and, for many people, a real audience — so losing access is more than a minor hassle. Resetting a forgotten password is quick when you still have your email or phone, and there’s a route back even when your account has been hijacked. We at GetMyPassword walk you through resetting your Instagram password and recovering a compromised account.
Reset your Instagram password
- On the login screen, tap Forgot password? (on the web, Get help logging in).
- Enter your username, email or phone number.
- Tap Send login link — Instagram emails a link, or texts a code if you chose your phone.
- Follow the link or enter the code, then create a new password.
If the link doesn’t arrive, check your spam folder and make sure the email or number you entered is actually the one tied to the account.
Recover a hacked account
If someone has changed your password and contact details, the standard reset won’t reach you. Instead, on the login screen choose Get more help → My account was hacked. Instagram then verifies your identity — often by asking for a short selfie video to match the photos on the profile. It’s an automated but surprisingly effective way to recover even a stolen account.
The one hard requirement: you need access to the email or phone on the account, or you must pass identity verification. Keep those details current — they’re your lifeline.
Watch out for fake “support”
Instagram recovery scams are everywhere: accounts and DMs promising to “restore your profile” or “verify you” in exchange for your login. Instagram never asks for your password outside the app, and there’s no paid shortcut. Only ever reset through the official app or instagram.com.
Lock your account down
Once you’re back in, do two things straight away: turn on two-factor authentication in Settings → Accounts Centre → Password and security, and set a strong, unique password with our password generator. Confirm it with the strength checker, and never reuse it on your email — that’s the account an attacker really wants.
Frequently asked questions
How do I reset my Instagram password?
Tap Forgot password? on the login screen, enter your username, email or phone, tap Send login link, then follow the emailed link or enter the texted code and set a new password.
How do I recover a hacked Instagram account?
On the login screen choose Get more help, then My account was hacked, and complete identity verification — often a selfie video matched to your profile photos.
Why isn’t my Instagram reset link arriving?
Check your spam folder and confirm you entered the exact email or phone tied to the account. If it still doesn’t come, try a different recovery option or request it again.