Lost Access To Your Facebook Or Instagram Account? Try These Fixes
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Losing access to your Facebook or Instagram account can be a stressful experience—especially if you use these platforms to stay in touch with friends, manage a business profile, or log into other services. Whether your account is lost, hacked, or you've simply forgotten your login credentials, here’s what you should do to get back in and protect it going forward.
If You’ve Lost Access to Your Account
If you can still access the email address or phone number linked to your account, your first step should be to reset your password.
No Access to Linked Email or Phone?
If you no longer have access to your registered email or phone number:
For Instagram users in a similar situation, visit instagram.com/hacked
If Your Account Has Been Hacked
If you suspect your account has been compromised:
You can also check the official Help Centre for step-by-step support tailored to your situation.
Once You Regain Access: Secure Your Account
Getting back into your account is only the first step—it's crucial to protect it from future risks:
1. Update Your Password
Create a strong and unique password using a combination of random words, phrases, or a memorable quote. Avoid predictable choices like “password123” or your birthdate. Consider using a password manager to keep track.
2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Go to the “Password and Security” section in the Accounts Centre and activate 2FA.
Tip: Use an authentication app or physical security key instead of SMS for added safety.
3. Save Recovery Codes
When enabling 2FA, you’ll receive backup recovery codes. Store these in a secure place, such as a password manager or encrypted note.
4. Set Login Alerts
Enable alerts for unrecognised logins from the “Password and Security” settings. This notifies you immediately if someone tries to access your account from an unfamiliar device or location.
5. Remove Suspicious Contacts
Review your friends or followers list and delete any unfamiliar or suspicious profiles. These could be scam accounts or bots.
6. Use Advanced Protection (if available)
Eligible users can activate “Advanced Protection for Facebook” in the security settings for enhanced safety.
Whether your account has been hacked, forgotten, or locked out, Facebook and Instagram offer recovery paths to help you regain control. Once you're back in, focus on strengthening your account’s security to prevent future issues. Your social media accounts are more than just platforms—they're essential parts of your digital identity, so it pays to keep them secure.
If You’ve Lost Access to Your Account
If you can still access the email address or phone number linked to your account, your first step should be to reset your password.
- Visit the login page of Facebook or Instagram
- Click on “Forgotten password?”
- Follow the prompts in the email or SMS sent to you to set a new password
No Access to Linked Email or Phone?
If you no longer have access to your registered email or phone number:
- Go to facebook.com/login/identify on a device you've previously used to log in
- Enter any email, phone number, or Facebook username
- Click on “No longer have access to these?” or “Forgotten account?”
- Follow the on-screen steps to verify your identity and regain control
For Instagram users in a similar situation, visit instagram.com/hacked
If Your Account Has Been Hacked
If you suspect your account has been compromised:
- Go to facebook.com/hacked or instagram.com/hacked
- Use a device you’ve previously used to access the platform
- Follow the instructions to secure your account and reset your password
You can also check the official Help Centre for step-by-step support tailored to your situation.
Once You Regain Access: Secure Your Account
Getting back into your account is only the first step—it's crucial to protect it from future risks:
1. Update Your Password
Create a strong and unique password using a combination of random words, phrases, or a memorable quote. Avoid predictable choices like “password123” or your birthdate. Consider using a password manager to keep track.
2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Go to the “Password and Security” section in the Accounts Centre and activate 2FA.
Tip: Use an authentication app or physical security key instead of SMS for added safety.
3. Save Recovery Codes
When enabling 2FA, you’ll receive backup recovery codes. Store these in a secure place, such as a password manager or encrypted note.
4. Set Login Alerts
Enable alerts for unrecognised logins from the “Password and Security” settings. This notifies you immediately if someone tries to access your account from an unfamiliar device or location.
5. Remove Suspicious Contacts
Review your friends or followers list and delete any unfamiliar or suspicious profiles. These could be scam accounts or bots.
6. Use Advanced Protection (if available)
Eligible users can activate “Advanced Protection for Facebook” in the security settings for enhanced safety.
Whether your account has been hacked, forgotten, or locked out, Facebook and Instagram offer recovery paths to help you regain control. Once you're back in, focus on strengthening your account’s security to prevent future issues. Your social media accounts are more than just platforms—they're essential parts of your digital identity, so it pays to keep them secure.
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