Instagram is a popular social media platform that allows users to share photos and videos with friends, family, and followers. With the increasing importance of online security, it is essential to regularly change your password to protect your account from potential hacking attempts or unauthorized access.
However, what if you forget your current password and want to change it? In this blog post, we will discuss different methods that can help you change your password on Instagram without knowing your current password. We will explore step-by-step procedures and provide insights into the pros and cons of each method.
Video Tutorial:
What’s Needed
Before we delve into the methods, it is crucial to gather a few essential items to ensure a successful password change on Instagram.
1. A reliable internet connection: Make sure you have a stable and secure internet connection to access Instagram and perform the necessary steps.
2. Access to your email or mobile number: Instagram requires users to link their account with either an email address or a mobile number. You will need access to the linked email or mobile number to reset your password.
3. A device with Instagram installed: Whether it’s a smartphone, tablet, or computer, make sure you have a device with the Instagram app or access to the Instagram website.
What Requires Your Focus?
Changing your password on Instagram without knowing the current password can be a bit tricky. It requires your undivided attention to ensure that you follow the steps correctly and maintain the security of your account throughout the process. Here are a few key elements to focus on:
1. Verify your identity: Instagram has security measures in place to protect your account. Some methods require you to verify your identity by providing information and confirming your ownership of the account.
2. Email or phone access: As mentioned earlier, you will need access to the email or mobile number linked to your Instagram account for password reset purposes. Make sure you can easily access this information before proceeding with the methods.
3. Security implications: Changing your password without the current password may have certain security implications. It is essential to understand the potential risks associated with each method and implement additional security measures, such as enabling two-factor authentication, to safeguard your account.
Method 1: How to Change Password on Instagram via Email
Changing your Instagram password using the email linked to your account is a common method. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
Step 1: Open the Instagram app or website on your device.
Step 2: On the login screen, tap on the "Forgot password?" or "Get help signing in" option. This will redirect you to the password reset page.
Step 3: Select the "Username" option and enter your Instagram username. If you don’t remember your username, you can also use the "Email" or "Phone" options.
Step 4: Tap on the "Send Email" button. Instagram will send a password reset link to the email associated with your account.
Step 5: Open your email inbox and look for an email from Instagram with the subject "Reset Your Instagram Password." If you can’t find it, check your spam or junk folder.
Step 6: Open the email and click on the provided password reset link. This will redirect you to a page where you can create a new password.
Step 7: Enter your desired new password and confirm it. Make sure to create a strong and unique password for better security.
Step 8: Tap on the "Reset Password" or "Change Password" button to save the new password.
Pros:
1. Securely verifies your identity through your email account.
2. Can be done from any device with access to your email.
3. Provides a straightforward process to change your password.
Cons:
1. Requires access to the email associated with your Instagram account.
2. Can be time-consuming if you face delays receiving the email or if it gets redirected to the spam folder.
3. May not be suitable if you no longer have access to the linked email.
Method 2: How to Change Password on Instagram via Mobile Number
If you have linked your Instagram account to a mobile number, you can use this method to change your password without knowing the current one. Below are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Open the Instagram app or website on your device.
Step 2: On the login screen, tap on the "Forgot password?" or "Get help signing in" option. This will take you to the password reset page.
Step 3: Select the "Phone" option and enter the mobile number linked to your Instagram account.
Step 4: Tap on the "Send SMS" or "Send Text Message" button. Instagram will send a verification code to your mobile number.
Step 5: Check your phone for the SMS containing the verification code. If you don’t receive it within a few minutes, you can request a new code.
Step 6: Enter the verification code in the designated field on the Instagram password reset page.
Step 7: Once the verification is successful, you will be prompted to create a new password. Enter your desired password and confirm it.
Step 8: Tap on the "Reset Password" or "Change Password" button to save the new password.
Pros:
1. Provides an additional option for password reset if you have linked your phone number to the account.
2. Offers a quick and straightforward process to change your password.
3. Can be done from any device with access to your mobile phone.
Cons:
1. Requires access to the mobile number linked to your Instagram account.
2. Can be challenging if you have changed your phone number or no longer have access to it.
3. May not be suitable if you haven’t linked your Instagram account to a mobile number.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Provides an additional option for password reset if you have linked your phone number to the account. | 1. Requires access to the mobile number linked to your Instagram account. |
| 2. Offers a quick and straightforward process to change your password. | 2. Can be challenging if you have changed your phone number or no longer have access to it. |
| 3. Can be done from any device with access to your mobile phone. | 3. May not be suitable if you haven’t linked your Instagram account to a mobile number. |
Method 3: How to Change Password on Instagram via Facebook
If you have linked your Instagram account to Facebook, you can utilize this method to change your password without knowing the current one. Follow the steps below:
Step 1: Open the Instagram app or website on your device.
Step 2: On the login screen, tap on the "Forgot password?" or "Get help signing in" option. This will redirect you to the password reset page.
Step 3: Select the "Facebook" option and tap on the "Continue with Facebook" button. Instagram will redirect you to the Facebook login page.
Step 4: Enter your Facebook email address and password to log in.
Step 5: Once logged in, Facebook will redirect you back to Instagram with the option to create a new password.
Step 6: Enter your desired new password and confirm it.
Step 7: Tap on the "Reset Password" or "Change Password" button to save the new password.
Pros:
1. Convenient if you have linked your Instagram account to Facebook.
2. Provides an alternative method to change your password without knowing the current one.
3. Offers a simple and seamless process through Facebook integration.
Cons:
1. Requires access to your Facebook account credentials.
2. May not be suitable if you haven’t linked your Instagram account to Facebook.
3. Requires trust in the security measures of Facebook, as it acts as an intermediary in the password change process.
Method 4: How to Change Password on Instagram via Trusted Contacts
Instagram allows users to set up trusted contacts as a security feature. These contacts can help you regain access to your account and change your password if you forget it. Follow the steps below to utilize this method:
Step 1: Open the Instagram app or website on your device.
Step 2: On the login screen, tap on the "Forgot password?" or "Get help signing in" option. This will take you to the password reset page.
Step 3: Select the "Username" option and enter your Instagram username. If you don’t remember your username, you can also use the "Email" or "Phone" options.
Step 4: Tap on the "Need more help?" or "Need more options?" link. This will expand the available options.
Step 5: Select the "Trusted contacts" option. Instagram will display a list of trusted contacts you have previously set up.
Step 6: Choose one of your trusted contacts from the list.
Step 7: Instagram will send a security code to your trusted contact. Contact them and ask for the code.
Step 8: Once you receive the security code, enter it in the designated field on the password reset page.
Step 9: If the security code is correct, you will be prompted to create a new password. Enter your desired new password and confirm it.
Step 10: Tap on the "Reset Password" or "Change Password" button to save the new password.
Pros:
1. Provides a reliable option to change your password with the help of trusted contacts.
2. Offers an additional layer of security by involving trusted individuals.
3. Can be effective if you have forgotten your password and have set up trusted contacts beforehand.
Cons:
1. Requires trust in your chosen trusted contacts.
2. Relies on others to provide the security code, which may cause delays.
3. Not suitable if you haven’t set up trusted contacts on Instagram.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Provides a reliable option to change your password with the help of trusted contacts. | 1. Requires trust in your chosen trusted contacts. |
| 2. Offers an additional layer of security by involving trusted individuals. | 2. Relies on others to provide the security code, which may cause delays. |
| 3. Can be effective if you have forgotten your password and have set up trusted contacts beforehand. | 3. Not suitable if you haven’t set up trusted contacts on Instagram. |
Why Can’t I Change Password on Instagram?
There might be several reasons why you are unable to change your password on Instagram. Here are some common issues and possible fixes:
1. Issue: Forgotten email or phone number linked to the account.
Fix: Try to recall and retrieve your email or phone number. If you no longer have access to either of them, you can try the trusted contacts method or contact Instagram’s support for assistance.
2. Issue: Hacked or compromised account.
Fix: If you suspect that your account has been hacked or compromised, it is crucial to take immediate action. Contact Instagram’s support to report the issue and follow their guidance to regain control of your account.
3. Issue: Incomplete account information or incorrect details.
Fix: Ensure that your account information is accurate and up to date. Update any incorrect or missing details, such as email address or phone number, to enable a smooth password change process.
Pros:
1. Helps users understand common issues they may encounter when changing their Instagram password.
2. Provides potential solutions or fixes for each issue.
3. Enhances user knowledge on troubleshooting password change problems.
Cons:
1. May require additional steps or assistance if the listed fixes do not resolve the issue.
2. Cannot cover every possible scenario, as password change issues can vary for each user.
Implications and Recommendations
Changing your password on Instagram without knowing the current password may have certain implications and potential risks. Here are three recommendations to consider:
1. Enable two-factor authentication: Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to your Instagram account. It requires you to provide a verification code in addition to your password when logging in. This additional step ensures that only authorized individuals can access your account.
2. Use a strong and unique password: When changing your password, make sure to create a strong and unique one that is not easily guessable. Avoid using common words, personal information, or sequential numbers. A strong password typically includes a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.
3. Regularly review account activity: Stay vigilant by regularly reviewing your Instagram account activity. Check for any unauthorized logins, unfamiliar devices, or suspicious actions. If you notice anything unusual, take immediate action to secure your account and report any concerns to Instagram’s support.
5 FAQs about Changing Password on Instagram
Q1: How often should I change my Instagram password?
A: It is recommended to change your Instagram password at least once every few months. Regularly updating your password reduces the risk of your account being hacked or unauthorized access.
Q2: Can I change my Instagram password from another person’s device?
A: Yes, you can change your Instagram password from any device as long as you have access to your account. However, for security reasons, it is advisable to change your password from your own trusted device whenever possible.
Q3: Will changing my Instagram password log me out of other devices?
A: Yes, changing your Instagram password will log you out of all devices where your account was previously logged in. This is a security measure to ensure that only the account owner has access to the new password.
Q4: What should I do if I forget both my Instagram password and linked email/phone number?
A: If you forget both your Instagram password and the linked email or phone number, it becomes more challenging to recover your account. In such cases, contacting Instagram’s support is crucial to verify your identity and regain access to your account.
Q5: Is it possible to change my Instagram password without any of the previously mentioned methods?
A: The methods mentioned in this blog post cover the primary options to change your Instagram password without knowing the current one. If none of these methods work for you, it is best to contact Instagram’s support for further assistance.
Final Words
Regularly changing your password on social media platforms like Instagram is essential to safeguard your account and protect your personal information. Although it may seem challenging to change your Instagram password without knowing the current one, the methods discussed in this blog post provide viable solutions.
Whether you prefer to utilize your linked email, mobile number, Facebook account, or trusted contacts, each method offers a way to change your password effectively. However, it is crucial to remember the associated pros and cons, ensure you have access to the necessary information, and consider implementing additional security measures like two-factor authentication.
By following the recommended guidelines and staying informed about potential account issues and solutions, you can maintain a secure and protected Instagram presence. Take charge of your account’s security and make changing your Instagram password a regular practice for online safety.