Many people use Instagram daily to promote their personal and company brands to connect with family and friends. Instagram account security must be a top priority.
Prevention is better than a cure. Here are some important steps to protect Instagram profile before anything goes wrong.
1. Strength your login credentials
As more users create Instagram accounts, more hacking attempts take place. The first reason to come here is a weak password. Strong Instagram passwords can help you secure your account from hackers. Avoid repeated passwords from other platforms. Never share your login details with third parties or unknown apps claiming to increase followers.
Tip: Use a combination of Upper and lower case letters, numbers, and symbols.
2. Enable Two Factor Authentication
Instagram’s Two-factor Authentication adds an extra layer of security for your account. It is a multi-process step that requires users to identify their ID through a security code.
Even if someone gets your password, they will not be able to log in to your account without a code from your phone.
3. Stay Cautious with Third-Party Apps and Devices
It is common to use Instagram as an authorised account to sign in to any third-party app like service, photo or video editing, games, and shopping. In this way, the third party may have access to your social media profile and account information.
Make sure you log out each time you log in on a public or shared device. Which is why Instagram suggests “think before you authorize a third-party app.”
4. Watch out for phishing and fake messages
Hackers always pretend to be a supporter in an Instagram phishing scam through Direct Messages or Emails. For instance, they may say your account will be suspended until you verify something.
Never click on an unauthorised or suspicious link. Instagram will never ask for sensitive information through DMs. Make sure you don’t share any of your personal information through DMs to an unknown person.
5. Regular review of Account Activity and settings
Have a regular review of the Instagram security setting of your account. If you find an unfamiliar location or device accessing your account, change your password immediately. Also, have a strong privacy setting in your Account to have control over who can message, tag, and interact with your profile.
6. Backup and recovery
It is always important to prepare for the worst, even at the best. Even with a strong Instagram security checklist, sometimes your Instagram account can be hacked. In order to avoid the situation. It is always recommended to keep a backup of your posts and messages.
Update your recovery info by ensuring your email and phone number are current and secure. Know how to report a hacked account at Instagram.com/hacked.
7. Avoid public Wifi login
Avoid logging in to Instagram on public Wi-Fi networks like those in cafes, airports, or hotels. These places are often unsecured and can expose your login details to hackers.
Instead, use mobile data whenever possible. Always log out of your Instagram account and clear browser history if you have accessed it on a public or shared network.
8. Update your iOS and Android
You can avoid your Instagram account being hacked by keeping your operating system updated. Ensure you are always using the updated version for your device by turning on automatic updates.
Keep your Instagram updated as new updates bring better security and features, which will help you to get rid of hacking.