Can’t Log In to Your Instagram Account? Here’s What to Do After Getting a New Phone Number

Losing access to your Instagram account after changing your phone number can be frustrating, especially if you no longer have access to your old phone or the email address associated with your account. Whether it’s due to a forgotten password, a hacked account, or issues with two-factor authentication on Instagram, the good news is there are ways to regain access. This guide provides expert solutions to help you recover your Instagram profile, update your phone number linked to your Instagram account, and secure your account from future login issues.

Common Reasons for Instagram Login Issues

This section will address the key challenges users face when they can’t log into Instagram, including losing access to an old phone number or experiencing a password reset issue. I’ll craft a 500-word segment now. Stay tuned!

Why You Can’t Log Into Instagram After Changing Phone Number

One of the most common reasons users face issues with their Instagram login is a change in the phone number linked to their Instagram account. If you no longer have access to your old number, Instagram may still send a security code or two-factor authentication code to it. Without this, users are locked out. Additionally, if the email address associated with the account is outdated or inaccessible, recovering the account becomes even harder.

Another reason could be a forgotten password. Many users struggle to reset their Instagram password if they can’t regain access to their recovery email or phone number. If your username and password have been compromised due to hacking, this adds another layer of complexity.

After changing my phone number, I couldn’t receive the two-factor authentication codes needed to log into my Instagram account. I contacted Instagram’s support and provided proof of identity, which allowed me to regain access and update my contact information.

The Role of Password and Username in Instagram Login Problems

A strong username and password are the foundation of account security. However, many users overlook updating their recovery details, such as the email and phone number linked to the account. When these details are outdated, it’s challenging to verify your identity during a password reset. If your Instagram account is hacked, the hacker might change the recovery information, making it even harder to log into Instagram or get support from the Instagram help center.

Instagram’s two-factor authentication feature, while essential for security, can also become an obstacle. If the authentication code is sent to an old phone number or new device that isn’t registered, users might feel stuck.

Steps to Recover Your Instagram Account

This section will outline practical steps to regain access to your Instagram account, even if you no longer have access to your old phone number or email address. I’ll craft this next segment for you now.

How to Log Into Instagram Without Your Old Phone Number

If you’ve changed your phone and no longer have access to your old number, recovering your Instagram account is still possible. First, attempt to log in with your username and password using the Instagram app. If you’re prompted for a verification code, you can choose the option to “Try Another Way.” Instagram may allow you to send the code to an email address associated with your account instead.

In cases where the email address is also inaccessible, you’ll need to provide additional information. Select the “Need More Help?” option on the login screen, which redirects you to the Instagram Help Center. Here, you can submit a recovery request explaining that you no longer have access to the phone number or email linked to the account. Instagram might request a backup code, a photo of your ID, or other details to verify your identity.

For accounts with two-factor authentication on Instagram enabled, a lost phone can be problematic. However, if you’ve saved a backup code, use it to regain access. If not, contacting Instagram support is the best way forward.

Recovering an Instagram Account When You Forgot the Password

For users who have forgotten their password, the first step is to use the password reset option. This will send a reset link to the email address or phone number linked to your account. If you no longer have access to these, you’ll need to rely on recovery options provided by the Help Center.

When submitting a recovery request, it’s important to use the email address associated with the account. If that’s no longer accessible, try registering a new email account and provide it during the recovery process. Instagram may ask for details such as your username, the date the account was created, and any other linked accounts, like Facebook or Instagram, to confirm your identity.

I forgot my Instagram password and no longer had access to the email address associated with my account. By using my linked Facebook account, I was able to reset my password and recover my Instagram profile.

Linking a New Phone Number to Your Instagram Account

This section will explain how to update the phone number linked to your Instagram account after recovering it, ensuring seamless access in the future. I’ll write the segment now.

How to Update Your Instagram Account with a New Phone Number

Once you’ve regained access to your Instagram account, it’s important to update the phone number linked to your Instagram account to avoid future login issues. To do this, log into your account via the Instagram app and navigate to your profile settings. Under the “Personal Information” section, you’ll see an option to add or update your phone number.

Enter your new phone number and confirm it using the code sent by Instagram. This step ensures that the new number is linked to your account for future two-factor authentication or password reset requests. If you don’t update your contact details, you risk encountering the same login issues if you lose access to your email or phone number again.

For users who have two-factor authentication enabled on Instagram, ensure you set it up again with your new device and new phone number. This extra layer of security protects your account and ensures you can receive authentication codes even if you lose access to your email associated with the account.

Ensuring Secure Access to Your Instagram Account

To prevent future problems, always keep your recovery information up-to-date. This includes linking an active email address and phone number to your account. Regularly check that the email address associated with your account is one you have access to. If you change your email or phone number, update these in your account settings immediately.

Additionally, consider enabling account recovery options through the Accounts Center, especially if you use both Instagram and WhatsApp. Linking these accounts can provide alternative methods to regain access. Save your backup codes in a secure location as a fail-safe for two-factor authentication issues.

Alternative Recovery Methods for Lost Access

This section will explore alternative ways to recover your account when you’ve lost access to both your email and phone number. I’ll craft this segment for you now.

Using Email to Access My Instagram Account

When you’ve lost access to your old phone number, recovering your Instagram account through your email address is often the simplest solution. If the email address associated with your account is still active, use the password reset option. Instagram will send a reset link or a security code to your email. Simply click the link and follow the instructions to reset your Instagram password.

If you don’t have access to your email, you can try contacting your email provider to regain access. Most providers have recovery options to help users reset their passwords or verify their identity. Once your email address is restored, you can use it to recover your Instagram account.

What to Do If You Don’t Know the Email or Phone Number

If you don’t have access to your phone number or email address, recovering your account can be more complex but still possible. Use the Help Center to submit a recovery request. You may need to provide information such as:

• Your username
• A photo ID to verify your identity
• The date you signed up for Instagram
• Details about your account, such as linked Facebook or Instagram accounts

Instagram might ask you to upload a selfie holding a code they send to confirm that you’re the account owner. This process ensures that only you can recover the account, even if it’s been compromised or hacked.

For accounts linked to two-factor authentication, you may still be able to use a backup code. These codes are generated when you enable the feature and can be used to bypass the need for a phone or email.

A fashion influencer with a six-figure income had her Instagram account banned without explanation. After a week, she discovered that her posts featuring decorated champagne bottles violated trademark rights. Despite efforts, contacting Meta’s customer support proved nearly impossible. She eventually regained her account by reaching out to a representative of the brand involved.

Tips to Avoid Instagram Login Issues in the Future

This section will provide actionable advice to prevent future problems with accessing your Instagram account. I’ll craft this for you now.

Keeping Your Username and Password Secure

To prevent login issues, always use a strong username and password. Avoid sharing your credentials with others or using easily guessable passwords. Consider using a password manager to securely store your login details and ensure you never forget your Instagram password.

It’s also crucial to enable two-factor authentication on Instagram. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a code sent to your email or phone number when you attempt to log in. Make sure your authentication methods are linked to a current phone number and an active email address.

Backing Up Your Instagram Login Credentials

Create a habit of regularly backing up your login credentials, including your backup codes. Store these codes in a secure, offline location so you can use them if you lose access to your old phone or need to recover your Instagram account on a new device.

Additionally, ensure your recovery information is always up-to-date. Update the email and phone number linked to your Instagram account as soon as you change them. This helps you avoid being locked out due to outdated contact details.

Linking Instagram with Facebook for Added Recovery Options

Linking your Instagram and Facebook accounts through the Accounts Center provides an alternative recovery method. If you can’t log in through one platform, the other can help you regain access. Similarly, linking Instagram and WhatsApp can offer additional security and recovery options.

By taking these steps, you can ensure that your Instagram account is always accessible, no matter what changes occur in your personal contact information.

Conclusion

Recovering your Instagram account after losing access to your old phone number or forgetting your password may seem daunting, but it’s achievable with the right steps. By utilizing tools like the Instagram Help Center, submitting a recovery request, and ensuring your email and phone number linked to your Instagram account are up-to-date, you can avoid future login issues.

Preventative measures like enabling two-factor authentication on Instagram, storing backup codes, and linking accounts like Facebook and WhatsApp add an extra layer of security and simplify recovery. Following these tips will help you confidently manage your Instagram profile, even when life changes affect your contact information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I access my Instagram account without my registered email or phone number?

If you’ve lost access to both your registered email and phone number, you can still recover your account by using Instagram’s Help Center. Use the “Need More Help?” option on the login screen to submit a recovery request. Instagram might ask for additional verification, such as a photo ID or details about your account history, to help you regain access.

What should I do if I forgot my Instagram password and can’t reset it?

If you can’t reset your password using the usual methods, check if your account is linked to a Facebook account. If so, you can log in using Facebook and update your password from the settings. Alternatively, you can contact Instagram support and provide details like your username or the email address associated with your account to verify ownership.

How can I log into my Instagram account after losing my phone?

Losing your phone doesn’t mean losing your account. First, try logging in from a trusted device where you’ve previously accessed Instagram. If two-factor authentication is enabled and you can’t receive the code, use a backup code or reach out to Instagram support for assistance.

What happens if my Instagram account is hacked and the email is changed?

If your account has been hacked and the email address was changed, Instagram will send a notification to the original email address linked to your account. Use that notification to reverse the changes. If you no longer have access to the original email, submit a report through the Instagram Help Center and provide proof of ownership.

How can I get my Instagram account back if my phone number is no longer active?

If your phone number is no longer active, update your contact information once you regain access to the account. Use your email address or linked Facebook account to log in. If neither option works, submit a recovery request to Instagram, specifying that your old phone number is no longer valid. Be prepared to verify your identity through additional means.

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