Instagram has become the go-to social media platform for millennials and Gen Z, with its broad user base and limitless content. However, with its popularity comes the risk of account hacks. To help users secure their accounts, Instagram has introduced features like Two-Factor Authentication (2FA). But what happens when you lose your backup codes and the device with the 2FA app? Don't worry, in this guide, we'll walk you through actionable steps to regain access to your Instagram account.
Method 1: Verify Your Identity
If you've lost access to your backup codes and the device with the 2FA app, you can still log in to your Instagram account by verifying your identity. Here's how:
- Open the Instagram app on the device you want to log in from.
- On the login page, enter your Instagram username.
- Below the password bar, tap on "Forgot your login details? Get help logging in."
- On the "Find Your Account" tab, tap on "Can't Reset Your Password" at the bottom of the screen.
- You'll be directed to the "Request Support" option. Select "Yes, take a selfie video" to confirm your account.
- Follow the instructions to verify your identity through a selfie video. Once the verification is complete, you'll regain access to your account.
Note: Make sure you have at least one photo on your Instagram page for the official Instagram team to verify your identity. Without a photo, they won't be able to cross-check your account.
Alternatively, if you don't have a photo of yourself on your account, you'll be redirected to a new tab. There, you'll be asked to enter the last password you remember using in the previous year. If you remember the password, enter it in the given space to access your account.
Method 2: Login via Email
If you have access to the Gmail account linked to your Instagram account, you can use this method to log in without a recovery code:
- Open the Instagram app on any Android or iOS device.
- Tap on the "Forgotten Password" option below the password bar.
- Enter your account username in the rectangular box on the screen.
- Tap on the "Find Account" option to locate your Instagram account.
- Select the "Get code or link via email" option and tap "Continue."
- Check your inbox for the login link sent by Instagram. Tap on the email and click the link to be redirected to your account.
Method 3: Use Trusted Devices
If you have previously logged in to your Instagram account on another device, you can use that device to log in without the need for verification codes. Here's how:
- On the already logged-in device, open the Instagram app and tap on your profile picture at the bottom right corner.
- Tap on the hamburger menu at the top right corner and select "Settings and privacy."
- Tap on "Accounts Center" and then "Privacy and security."
- In the "Meta Accounts Center," select "Two-factor authentication."
- On the next page, select your account.
- Under "Additional methods," ensure the toggle beside "Login requests" is turned on.
- Now, open the Instagram app on the device you want to log in from and enter your username and password.
- Along with the authentication code, Instagram will send a login request to the already logged-in device.
- On the device you have already logged in, open the Notifications tab, select the login notification, and tap "Approve."
Alternatively, if you have an already logged-in device with you, you can disable two-factor authentication altogether. Here's how:
- Open the Two-factor authentication page on the Meta Accounts Center.
- Tap on each authentication method and turn off the toggle to disable that method.
- In the pop-up, tap on "Turn off" to confirm.
By following these steps, you can easily log in to Instagram without the need for verification codes.
Method 4: Try Logging in to a Previously Used Device
If you can't find a device on which you have already logged in to Instagram, try logging in to a phone where you have previously logged in. Instagram saves trusted devices, so you won't need verification codes when logging in from those devices. Here's how:
- Open the Instagram app on the previously used device.
- Enter your username and password to log in.
- If prompted for verification codes, it means the device is not recognized as a trusted device.
- However, if you have not disabled the "Trust this device" option, Instagram will save it as a trusted device.
- Use the trusted device to log in to Instagram without the need for verification codes.
Method 5: Contact Instagram Support
If none of the above methods work and you're still unable to log in to your Instagram account, your last resort is to contact Instagram support. Here's how:
- While entering the authentication code, tap on "Try another way" and select the "Get support" option from the menu.
- If you have photos on your Instagram account, choose the option to "Take a selfie video to confirm my account" and provide your email to continue the process.
- Submit your selfie video, and Instagram will verify it with the photos and videos on your account.
- Once verified, you will receive an email with instructions on how to regain access to your account.
How to Prevent Lockouts in the Future
To avoid being locked out of your Instagram account, it's essential to set up additional security measures. Here are some tips:
Enable Multiple Authentication Methods
By enabling multiple authentication methods, you'll have more ways to log in to your account. You can use authenticator apps, SMS authentication, and WhatsApp OTP authentication. Here's how to enable authentication methods:
- Open the Instagram app and go to your profile.
- Tap on the hamburger menu and select "Settings and privacy."
- Go to "Account Center" and then "Privacy and settings."
- Tap on "Two-factor authentication."
- Select your account and choose the authentication methods you want to enable.
Save Backup Codes
Instagram provides backup codes when you enable two-factor authentication. These codes can be used in case you don't have access to other authentication methods. Here's how to save backup codes:
- Open the Two-factor authentication page on Instagram.
- Tap on "Additional methods" and select "Backup codes."
- Note down the backup codes provided by Instagram and store them in a safe place.
Always Enable Trusted Devices Option
Enabling the trusted devices option allows you to log in to Instagram without the need for verification codes. Here's how to enable trusted devices:
- Open the Two-factor authentication page on Instagram.
- Tap on "Additional methods" and ensure the toggle beside "Login requests" is turned on.
- Whenever you log in via a trusted device, enable the "Trust this device" option.
By following these steps, you can prevent future lockouts and ensure easy access to your Instagram account.
Remember, securing your Instagram account is crucial to protect your personal information and maintain your online presence. By implementing these strategies, you can regain access to your account if you lose your backup codes and phone with the two-factor authenticator app.