How to Know if My Instagram Account is Hacked

Do you use Instagram every day? If so, you’re not alone. As of 2021, there are over 1 billion accounts on Instagram. The popular photo and video sharing platform has gained massive global attention since it was first introduced in October 2010. What began as a way to share brunch photos has now become one of the most successful apps ever made. If you are a daily Instagram user, your account is probably important to you. This is why it’s necessary to ask: “How can I know if my Instagram account is hacked?”

For some users, Instagram is much more than a platform: it’s a lifestyle. Posting content and connecting with others are some of the daily responsibilities of artists and creators marketing their work online. If you rely on Instagram to sell products or services, an account compromised by cybercriminals puts your livelihood in jeopardy. Take a look as we cover some of the most important indications that your Instagram account is hacked. 

How Does an Instagram Account Get Hacked?

Much like any other application or piece of software that relies on the Internet, Instagram is susceptible to cyber-attacks. Although the platform’s security has increased over the years, there are still vulnerabilities that could put users at risk. 

In-app scams and phishing schemes have been increasing drastically in the past few years. Well-established accounts are easy to fake, and cybercriminals have been using this to their advantage. Accidentally clicking on suspicious links from accounts that seem to be real is a common issue for many users. For this reason, it’s important to never give away personal information on Instagram.

Cases of Instagram accounts being hacked over public WiFi also occur. Some cybercriminals are able to take advantage of vulnerabilities in public WiFi networks with minimal security. If you don’t protect your smartphone, these attackers can infiltrate your device and steal your private data. Using a VPN on your mobile device is a great way to prevent cybercriminals from obtaining your information.

Signs Your Instagram Account Was Hacked

While some cybercriminals focus on harassing their victims for money by using ransomware, others are less obvious with their hacking. However, there are certain signs of a hacked Instagram account to be on the lookout for. If you notice any of these issues occurring while using the app, contact support immediately. 

• You can’t log in to your account
• Your account is suddenly following new people you don’t know
• Your account has liked posts that you’ve never seen
• There are photos on your account that you didn’t upload

If you believe that someone is compromising your Instagram account, report it to the Instagram support team right away. You’ll need to provide identifying information to customer support to show that you are the true owner of the page. They will be able to review the details of the case and hopefully help you restore access to your account. 

How to Protect Your Instagram Account

To avoid a cyber-attack, learn to protect your Instagram account before an attack occurs. Take a look at the following ways that you can secure your Instagram account and protect yourself from cyber-attacks.

• Enable two-factor authentication
• Never log in on a device you don’t trust
• Change your password to something secure
• Browse with caution on public WiFi networks
• Check which third-party apps have access to your account

Another way to protect your Instagram account, as well as your system or network, is to download a reliable VPN. With privacy from a VPN, you can hide your IP address and guarantee your data will remain secure. 

Reliable Privacy and Security from PrivadoVPN

Protecting your information online can be extremely difficult, whether it’s your Instagram account or your personal files. As new varieties of malware and viruses emerge, it can be overwhelming to try and keep your private information safe. With privacy protection from PrivadoVPN, you can secure your personal data with the push of a button. 

Our easy-to-use app is perfect for protecting smartphones, computers, tablets, routers, and even your TV. In a matter of seconds, you can connect to one of our hundreds of global servers and hide your activity. Plus, with our SOCKS5 proxy integration and secure encryption protocols, you can feel good about the safety of your data.

Sign up today and see the difference that PrivadoVPN can make for your privacy.