It happens to almost everyone – you try to log in to Instagram and suddenly realize you’ve forgotten your password. Don’t panic! The good news is that Instagram makes it simple to reset your password and get back into your account.
Whether you lost access after changing phones, haven’t logged in for a while, or just can’t remember the right password, the recovery process is quick and easy.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the exact steps to recover your forgotten password using your email, phone number, or even your username.
How to Recover Your Instagram Password
Let’s go through the process step by step.
Step 1: Open the Instagram Login Page
Open the Instagram app or visit the website on your browser. On the login screen, you will see the option “Forgot password?” Tap on it to begin.
Step 2: Enter Your Email, Username, or Phone Number
Instagram will ask you to enter your registered email address, phone number, or username. Choose whichever one you have access to and then tap Continue.
Password Recovery
Step 3: Choose a Recovery Method
Instagram will send you a recovery link or code. You can receive this through:
- Email: A password reset link will be sent to your registered email.
- SMS: A code will be sent to your phone if your number is linked.
Select the option that is easiest for you.
Step 4: Reset Your Password
Once you receive the reset link or code, open it and follow the on-screen instructions. You will be asked to create a new password. Choose a strong password that is easy for you to remember but hard for others to guess.
Step 5: Log Back In
After setting your new password, go back to the Instagram login page. Enter your username and the new password to access your account.
Tips to Avoid Forgetting Your Password Again
- Save your password in a secure password manager.
- Do not use the same password for multiple accounts.
- Turn on two-factor authentication (2FA) for extra security.
- Update your recovery email and phone number in your Instagram settings.
Tips for a Stronger Password
Use a Long Password:
Using a long password is one of the easiest ways to protect your account. Aim for at least 12–16 characters, as longer passwords are much harder for hackers to crack through brute-force attacks.
Combine Letters, Numbers, and Symbols:
Make sure to combine uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols like !, @, #, or $. This variety makes your password much stronger. For example, instead of Password123, try P@ssw0rd!2025.
Avoid Personal Information:
Avoid using personal information such as your name, birthday, phone number, or pet’s name. Hackers can easily guess passwords that include such details.
Use Unique Passwords for Each Account:
It’s important to use unique passwords for each account. Reusing the same password across multiple accounts can put all your accounts at risk if one gets hacked.
Try Passphrases or Random Word Combinations:
Consider using passphrases or random word combinations instead of single words. A password like BlueTiger!92Dance is easy to remember but extremely difficult for others to guess.
Change Passwords Regularly:
Changing passwords regularly adds another layer of security. Even strong passwords can become vulnerable over time, so updating them every few months is a good practice.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA):
Enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) greatly improves security. With 2FA, you need a second verification step, like a code sent to your phone, along with your password to access your account.
Use a Password Manager:
Finally, using a password manager can help you generate and store strong, unique passwords for all your accounts, so you don’t have to remember dozens of complex passwords yourself.
Recovering your forgotten Instagram password is simple if you follow the right steps. Just use your email, or phone number to reset it, and you’ll be back to scrolling and sharing in no time. Always keep your login details safe to avoid future problems.