Instagram hacks are becoming increasingly common, especially for creators, founders, and businesses. Losing access to your account can impact your brand reputation, audience trust, and even revenue. If you’re searching for how to recover a hacked Instagram account, this guide will walk you through proven steps to regain control and secure your profile for the future.
At Levelup PR, we help individuals and brands recover hacked social media accounts while protecting their digital reputation.
Signs Your Instagram Account Has Been Hacked
Before you begin recovery, it’s important to confirm whether your account has actually been compromised.
Common warning signs include
- Your email or phone number has been changed without permission
- Posts, stories, or messages you didn’t create appear
- Your password no longer works
- You receive a security email from Instagram about suspicious activity
If you notice any of these, act immediately. The faster you respond, the higher your chances of recovery.
How to Recover a Hacked Instagram Account Using Instagram’s Official Method
Instagram provides built-in recovery tools specifically for hacked accounts.
Step 1 – Check Instagram Security Emails
Search your inbox for an email from security@mail.instagram.com stating your email or password was changed.
If available, click “Revert this change.” This instantly blocks the hacker’s access and is often the fastest way to recover a hacked Instagram account.
Step 2 – Use “Secure Your Account” Inside Instagram
If you can still access the app:
- Go to Settings > Security > Login Activity
- Log out of suspicious devices
- Change your password immediately
Choose a strong password you’ve never used before.
Step 3 – Report Your Account as Hacked
If you’re completely locked out:
- Open Instagram
- Tap Forgot password?
- Select “Someone hacked my account”
- Enter your email or username
Instagram may ask for identity verification through a selfie video or ID confirmation.
How to Recover a Hacked Instagram Account Without Email Access
Many hacks involve changing your registered email. Recovery is still possible.
Use Instagram Identity Verification
Instagram may request:
- A selfie video turning your head
- Confirmation of previous usernames
- The device you usually log in from
This step proves ownership and plays a critical role in how to recover a hacked Instagram account when login details are altered.
What to Do After You Recover Your Instagram Account
Regaining access is only half the process. Securing your account is essential.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Use an authenticator app instead of SMS for stronger protection.
Review Account Activity
Remove unknown linked apps, check login locations, and delete suspicious content.
Update All Linked Credentials
Change passwords for your email, Facebook (if connected), and other social platforms. Hackers often target multiple accounts once they gain access to one.
Why Instagram Accounts Get Hacked in the First Place
Understanding the cause helps prevent future attacks.
Common reasons include
- Clicking phishing links
- Using third-party growth apps
- Weak or reused passwords
- Fake verification or ad offers
At Levelup PR, we frequently see accounts compromised through fake brand collaboration emails.
How Levelup PR Can Help Recover a Hacked Instagram Account
If Instagram support is slow or unresponsive, expert intervention can make a significant difference.
How Levelup PR supports you
- Strategic guidance through Instagram recovery forms
- Reputation management during account downtime
- Preventing impersonation and fake accounts
- Long-term social media security consulting
We don’t just help you recover a hacked Instagram account. We protect your brand image throughout the process.
How Long Does It Take to Recover a Hacked Instagram Account?
Recovery timelines vary:
- 24 to 72 hours if the security email option works
- 3 to 7 days with identity verification
- Longer if documentation is incomplete
Professional guidance often improves response time and success rates.

Final Thoughts on How to Recover a Hacked Instagram Account
Knowing how to recover a hacked Instagram account can save you from losing years of content, audience trust, and business growth. Act quickly, use Instagram’s official recovery tools, and strengthen your security once access is restored.If you need expert assistance, Levelup PR is here to protect your digital presence, restore access, and ensure your brand emerges stronger.
