How to Recover Your Old Instagram Account: A Complete Guide. Recover Account.
Instagram has become one of the most popular social media platforms in the world. With billions of users sharing photos, videos, and stories daily, it’s no surprise that many people have old accounts they’d like to access again. Whether you lost access due to forgetting your password, changing your phone, or being hacked, recovering your old Instagram account is usually possible. In this article, we’ll walk you through step-by-step methods to get your account back safely and effectively.
1. Reasons You Might Lose Access to Your Instagram Account
Before we dive into the recovery steps, it’s helpful to understand why people lose access to their accounts. Common reasons include:
Forgotten password or username
Lost access to the email or phone number linked to the account
Account hacked or compromised
Account disabled by Instagram for policy violations
Deleting the app or switching devices
Identifying the reason will help you choose the best recovery method.
2. Try the “Forgot Password” Option
The simplest and most common method is using Instagram’s password reset feature.
Steps:
1. Open the Instagram app or go to the website.
2. Click on “Forgot password?” on the login screen.
3. Enter your email, phone number, or username.
4. Instagram will send a login link to your email or phone.
5. Click the link, set a new password, and log in.
Note: Make sure to check your spam or junk folders in case you don’t see the email.
3. Recover Using Your Linked Facebook Account
If your old Instagram account was connected to Facebook, this method can work smoothly.
Steps:
1. Open Instagram and choose “Log in with Facebook”.
2. If you’re already logged into Facebook on the device, it will ask for permission.
3. Tap Continue, and you’ll be logged into Instagram.
This method bypasses email and password if your accounts are properly linked.
4. Use the Instagram Help Center
If the above methods don’t work, especially in cases of hacking or lost contact info, you’ll need to request support from Instagram.
Steps:
1. Visit the Instagram Help Center: https://help.instagram.com
2. Go to Login Help.
3. Choose the issue: “I can’t log in”, “My account was hacked”, etc.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions, which may include:
Verifying your identity
Uploading a selfie with a security code
Providing account details like username, email, and the last time you had access
Once submitted, Instagram will review your case and send recovery instructions if the information matches.
5. Recover Without Email or Phone Access
If you’ve lost access to both your email and phone number, you can still try to get your account back.
What You Can Do:
Go to the Login Help section
Tap “Need more help?”
Fill in the form with any details you remember, such as:
Old passwords
Previous devices used
When you last had access
Instagram might ask you to submit a photo of yourself holding a verification code
The more accurate information you provide, the better your chances.
6. If Your Account Was Hacked
If you suspect someone hacked your account, act fast to prevent further damage.
What to Do:
1. Go to the Instagram app and click “Get help logging in”
2. Enter your username or email.
3. Tap “Need more help?”
4. Select “My account was hacked”
5. Follow instructions and upload identity proof if required.
If Instagram detects suspicious activity, they may temporarily lock the account and notify you via email.
7. Restore a Disabled Instagram Account
Sometimes Instagram disables accounts that violate its terms, often without prior warning.
Steps:
1. Try logging in – if it says “Your account has been disabled”, click “Learn More”.
2. You’ll be directed to a form where you can appeal the decision.
3. Explain clearly and honestly why your account should be restored.
4. Upload any necessary documents if asked.
Instagram usually reviews appeals within a few days, but it can take up to a week or more
8. Tips to Prevent Future Account Loss
Once you recover your account, it’s important to protect it.
Helpful Tips:
Link your account to your phone number, email, and Facebook
Turn on two-factor authentication (2FA) for extra security
Use a strong and unique password
Avoid logging in on public or shared devices
Check login activity regularly in settings
By taking these precautions, you greatly reduce the chances of losing access again.
9. When Recovery Isn’t Possible
Sometimes, if an account has been inactive for a long time, permanently deleted, or repeatedly violated Instagram’s policies, recovery might not be possible. In such cases:
Create a new account with a similar username.
Notify your followers through other platforms.
Learn from the experience and secure your new account better.
Losing access to your Instagram account can be frustrating, especially if it holds precious memories and connections. Fortunately, Instagram provides several recovery options, whether you’ve forgotten your password, lost your phone, or had your account hacked. By following the right steps and providing accurate information, you can often regain access in a matter of minutes or days.
Always make sure to keep your account details updated and enable extra security features. Prevention is better than cure—and in the digital world, that means safeguarding your social media accounts today to avoid headaches tomorrow.
