Introduction
Your Instagram account contains a lot of personal information. It’s even more valuable to you if you use it to market your business. As a result, your Instagram account can be a popular target for hackers. Changing your Instagram password every 90 days, and making sure you follow good password practices, is a simple way to keep your account safe. Good password practices include staying away from using real words, making it at least six characters, and including a special character. Changing your Instagram password in the Instagram mobile app on iPhone, iPad and Android devices only takes a few minutes. Examples of all instructions in the steps can be seen in the YouTube video below.
Steps to Change Instagram Password
- Tap your Instagram profile icon in the lower right corner of the screen. Your Instagram profile screen appears.
- Tap the “Menu” icon in the upper right corner of the screen. A menu flies in from the right side of the screen.
- Tap “Settings” at the bottom of the menu. The Settings screen appears.
- Tap “Security” in the Settings menu. The Security screen appears.
- Tap “Password” in the Security menu. A message appears saying an email has been sent to the email account associated with your Instagram account.
- Access the email account associated with your Instagram account, and then open the email from Instagram with a subject line that reads “Reset Your Password.” Tap the “Reset Password” button in the body of that email. The Instagram.com website will open in your device’s web browser to a page prompting you to enter your new Instagram password.
- Enter your new Instagram password in the two New Password fields on the screen, and then tap “Reset Password.” You’ll be routed to your Instagram home page on Instagram.com after resetting your Instagram password. You’ll need to re-enter the username and password information for this account before you can access it again in the Instagram mobile app for iPhone, iPad and Android devices. Additionally, you’ll receive an email from Instagram letting you know the password for this account has been changed.
5 Reasons to Change Instagram Password
1. Suspected Security Breach
When there’s a whiff of suspicious activity on your Instagram account, changing your password is crucial. This might include unexpected logins from unknown locations or devices. Unauthorized posts, messages, or comments that appear without your permission are big red flags. Changing your password can help secure your account. It also minimizes the risk of further unauthorized access. To enhance security, enable two-factor authentication as well. This extra layer of security requires not just a password but also a code sent to your phone. It’s your first line of defense after updating your password.
2. Following a Data Leak Announcement
Data breaches are a harsh reality in our digital world. Major leaks often include email addresses and passwords. If Instagram—or any service sharing your credentials—reports a breach, change your password immediately. This precaution prevents malicious actors from using your exposed details. They might try to access your account with stolen information. Regularly updating your passwords also helps safeguard against automated attacks. These attacks use leaked credentials across different sites. Additionally, consider using a password manager. This tool can generate and store complex passwords, making your online presence more secure.
3. Regular Maintenance
Routine password changes are a cornerstone of good digital hygiene. Even if no immediate threat looms, updating your password every few months is wise. This practice helps in keeping potential intruders guessing. It also reduces the lifespan of a stolen password in the wild. Think of it as regular maintenance for your digital identity, much like oil changes for your car. Ensuring your passwords are fresh and unique across services strengthens your defense. Avoid using simple patterns or repeated passwords across different sites. Opt for combinations of letters, numbers, and symbols that are hard to guess.
4. Sharing Passwords in the Past
If you’ve ever shared your Instagram password—perhaps for a promotional campaign or with a trusted friend—it’s time for a change. Once shared, it’s difficult to control where your password might end up. The person you shared it with might unknowingly pass it on or expose it to risk. To keep control over your account, update your password once you no longer need to share access. Make sure to communicate this change to anyone who might be affected. This way, you ensure that access remains strictly personal and secure.
5. After a Personal or Professional Breakup
Personal dynamics change, and sometimes they impact our digital lives. If you’ve gone through a breakup or a falling out with someone who knew your password, update it. This is essential to maintain your privacy and security. Even if the breakup was amicable, it’s better to err on the side of caution. Removing access can prevent potential emotional decisions that might compromise your account. It’s also a good practice to review other shared services and update passwords accordingly. This helps keep your online boundaries clear and secure.
