Due to its popularity, hackers and criminals frequently use Instagram to steal personal information. Hacking Instagram can be challenging, but with the right method, it can be done quickly and effectively.
Various programs can help crack passwords and access accounts without being detected. Additionally, special techniques such as phishing, brute-forcing, and keylogging can be effective if used correctly. By using any of these effective methods to hack Instagram, an intruder can easily gain access to an account without being traced or detected by the user.
Over two billion people use Instagram, one of the most widely utilized social media platforms, worldwide. To avoid prying eyes, you should minimize the information you disclose on social media platforms. Check out the most common ways that Instagram accounts get hacked and how to protect yourself and your loved ones.
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Upload Photos Gradually
You should be careful not to post pictures to Instagram immediately after you take them. To keep hackers and other risks out, it’s always a good idea to upload images a day or two after capturing them. You never know if someone is keeping an eye on different Instagram account details.
Don’t Tag Locations Needlessly
You should be very careful when tagging the addresses of the places you will be visiting. Make sure not to tag yourself in the first photo you will post. Wait at least 2-3 hours.
Tag Only Your Closest Friends or Family Members
Some Instagram users add many tags to their pictures to get likes and engagement. Tagging too many people on your photos, like brands, magazines, and celebrities will sometimes draw unnecessary attention to your account, and it will become an easy target for hackers.
Keep Hashtags to a Minimum
Many Instagram users often use numerous hashtags to increase the number of likes on their posts. The important thing to remember is to use only the appropriate hashtags. Keep your account in private mode as well. That way, you will ensure that no one can follow you without your permission.
Do Not Post Sensitive Images
Unless you are using Instagram professionally, limit your posting to a few posts per week. Do not post sensitive images, images that reveal too much about you, or something personal.
Now that you are aware of the most common ways hackers attack someone’s Instagram account, we’ll give you some tips on how to provide additional protection to your account.
Hacked Instagram Account: Self-Defense Advice
- Choose a strong password with at least six characters that include a punctuation mark and a number to protect your Instagram account from hackers.
- Choose a different one from the ones you use to sign in to other internet services.
- Change your password frequently—a piece of advice you’ve probably heard a million times but have never taken seriously because you didn’t think it was necessary at the time.
- Never share your password with anyone.
- Remember to log out each time you use a public or a third-party device to access Instagram by unchecking the “Stay logged in” box. However, it is actually best if you never use a public connection.
More than these, removing access to questionable third-party apps and enabling two-factor authentication are further steps you may take to secure your account (before authorizing applications outside Instagram and Facebook, ensure they are trusted, safe, and secure).
How To Turn On Two-Factor Authentication
Select Settings > Privacy and Security > Two-factor authentication from your profile by clicking the icon with the three horizontal lines in the top right corner. You can now select between SMS (the code will be delivered to your phone number through a message if you access your account from another unrecognized device) and an Authentication app. In the second scenario, Instagram will see whether you already have one; if not, it will suggest which one to download.
Check the Security Page Regularly
It is advised that you keep checking your Instagram account’s security page regularly. You should ensure only your contacts can view your status, profile photo, and last seen. By doing this, only the people you trust can tell when you last used the account.
Use an External App Blocking Service
Sometimes your smartphone needs additional security, but most of the time just adding a layer of security is sufficient. If you’re still not feeling safe enough when it comes to your Instagram account, you can use third-party apps like App Lock to lock specific apps. Some phones can lock specific apps using your fingerprint or retina.
