If you received an Instagram password reset email when you didn’t request one, you’re not alone.
Many Instagram users received an email over the last few days that was due to an issue with an external party, according to Instagram.
Instagram provided an update after many users took to social media platforms over the confusion and potential of a security breach.
We fixed an issue that let an external party request password reset emails for some people. There was no breach of our systems and your Instagram accounts are secure. You can ignore those emails — sorry for any confusion.
Instagram posted on X
The emails came from Instagram’s legitimate email address and included a message that said, “If you ignore this message, your password will not be changed. If you didn’t request a password reset, let us know.” The last part of the sentence hyperlinked back to Instagram’s site.
While Instagram reassured the emails were not part of a breach, emails like these happen often as part of scams that give hackers access to your account. Here’s how to protect your social media accounts:
- Make sure to have a strong, unique password. This means having complex passwords with letters, numbers and symbols. You should also use different passwords across all platforms in case one gets compromised.
- Use multi-factor authentication. This can add a layer of security and requires a second form of verification to access an account, making it harder for hackers if they do have your password. Cybersecurity experts emphasize this as one of the most effective ways to protect your accounts.