Forgetting your password on Instagram is an annoying thing but recovering it is easy to do. This post will take you through how to reset your Instagram password when, although I more accurately describe it as regaining access, whether you have forgotten the password or believe your account has been hacked.
Why You Might Need to Reset Your Instagram Password
1. Forgotten Password
Forgetting your password can happen if you haven’t logged in for a while, recently changed passwords on other platforms, or use complex passwords that are hard to remember.
2. Security Concerns
The best course of action is to change your password if you see unauthorized posts, follows, or login alerts. It is also important to reset your password if you have been subjected to phishing attacks or used the same passwords on various other websites.
3. Account Recovery
If you are locked for too many failed login attempts, access from a suspicious location, or have been hacked & need to reset your password. If your account has been inactive for an extended period and you want to re-activate it, this is also a must.
Methods to Reset Your Instagram Password
There are three main ways to reset your Instagram password:
- Using the Instagram App
- Using the Website
- Using Your Email, Phone Number, or Facebook Account
Let’s dive into each method.
1. Resetting Your Instagram Password Using the App
If you have access to your Instagram app, follow these steps:
Step 1: Open the Instagram App
- Launch the Instagram app on your smartphone.
Step 2: Tap on “Forgotten Password?”
- On the login page, tap the “Forgot Password?” link just below the password field.
Step 3: Enter Your Username, Email, or Phone Number
- You’ll be prompted to enter your username, email address, or phone number associated with your Instagram account.
Step 4: Choose the Reset Method
- You’ll be given options to reset your password via:
- SMS (Text Message)
- Facebook Account (if it’s linked)
Step 5: Follow the Instructions
- Based on the method you choose, Instagram will send you a link or code to reset your password.
Step 6: Create a New Password
- Click on the link or enter the code, and you’ll be directed to a page where you can create a new password. Make sure to choose a strong and unique password.
Step 7: Log In
- Use your new password to log back into your Instagram account.
2. Resetting Your Instagram Password Using the Website
If you prefer using a web browser, you can reset your password from Instagram’s official website:
Step 1: Visit Instagram’s Website
- Go to www.instagram.com in your browser.
Step 2: Click on “Forgot Password?”
- On the login page, click the “Forgot Password?” link.
Step 3: Enter Your Username, Email, or Phone Number
- Enter the username, email address, or phone number associated with your account.
Step 4: Select the Reset Option
- Choose how you’d like to receive the password reset link or code (via email, SMS, or Facebook).
Step 5: Follow the Instructions
- Instagram will send you an email or SMS with a link or code to reset your password.
Step 6: Set a New Password
- Click on the link or enter the code, then set your new password.
Step 7: Log In with Your New Password
- Use your new password to access your Instagram account.
3. Resetting Your Password Using Your Email, Phone Number, or Facebook Account
If you’ve forgotten your password and want to use your email, phone number, or Facebook account to reset it, here’s how:
Step 1: Access the Reset Page
- Visit the Instagram login page on the app or website and click on “Forgot Password?”
Step 2: Choose a Recovery Option
- Enter your email address, phone number, or username. If your Facebook account is linked, you can also use it to reset your password.
Step 3: Receive the Reset Link or Code
- Instagram will send a reset link to your email or a code via SMS to your phone.
Step 4: Reset Your Password
- Follow the link or enter the code to create a new password.
Step 5: Log Back In
- Use your new password to log in to Instagram.
Tips for Creating a Strong Password
When resetting your password, it’s crucial to choose a strong and secure one to protect your account. Here are some tips:
- Use a Mix of Characters: use uppercase, lowercase letters, and numbers in your password.
- Avoid Common Words: Do not use very common words or your name, address, or password.
- Make It Unique: Make sure that you use a password whose content is not repeated in other accounts.
- Use a Password Manager: Perhaps use a password manager to keep your hands on complex passwords and generate new ones.
What to Do If You Don’t Receive the Reset Email or SMS
If you have not received the reset link or code.
- Check Your Spam Folder: The email may have been filtered out into spam or junk folder.
- Wait for a Few Minutes: It could take a few minutes for the confirmation email or SMS to come in.
- Ensure You Entered the Correct Information: Double-check and Ensure you have typed in your email address or phone number correctly.
- Try Again: If necessary, repeat the process.
Additional Security Measures
Once you’ve reset your password, it’s a good idea to enhance your account’s security:
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication: This gives your account an extra security layer every time you log in namely a code being sent to your phone.
- Keep Your Email Secure: Make sure your email associated with Instagram is secure and has a strong password.
- Monitor Account Activity: You should always keep an eye on your account activity to check for unexpected access.
Conclusion
Using the app, website or more recovery options it is an easy task to reset your Instagram password. This will enable you to easily retrieve your account in addition to protect it. Use a strong password and take any extra precautions necessary to keep your account secure.