Beware Instagram users! Hackers are still hijacking accounts despite Meta claiming fix: Tips to stay safe
Follow UsInstagram users need to stay extra cautious.
A recently discovered security issue is reportedly still being exploited by hackers even after Meta claimed to have fixed it.
There is currently no guaranteed way to fully protect an Instagram account.
Instagram users need to stay extra cautious, as a recently discovered security issue is reportedly still being exploited by hackers even after Meta claimed to have fixed it. The problem first came to light when several Instagram accounts were allegedly taken over through Meta AI’s support system. According to reports, attackers were able to send simple text prompts to Meta AI and change the email address linked to a target Instagram account. Once the email address was changed, hackers could gain control of the account.
SurveyMeta’s Vice President of Communications, Andy Stone, said that the company had resolved the issue and was working to protect affected users. However, several users claim the problem has not been fixed yet.
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Reverse engineer Jane Manchun Wong said one of their secondary Instagram accounts, which had a four-letter username, was hacked despite having two-factor authentication (2FA) enabled. Wong also reported that the password for their main Instagram account was changed without their permission. According to Android Authority, these reports came after Meta announced that the issue had been resolved.
Many users responding to Wong’s posts shared similar experiences, suggesting that account takeovers are still happening. Among them was Esther Crawford, former Director of Product Management at Twitter/X and now a Director of Product Management at Meta, who said that her five-letter Instagram handle was also compromised.
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Responding to an X user, Stone said Meta had “already secured impacted accounts” and is now “working to restore access to affected individuals.” He added that some users may receive password reset notifications, while others could be asked security questions when logging in.
How to protect your Instagram account
While it seems like there is currently no guaranteed way to fully protect an Instagram account against this issue, users should still take important security precautions:
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA).
- Use a strong and unique password.
- Avoid reusing passwords across multiple services.
- Regularly review login activity and connected devices.
- Change your password immediately if you notice suspicious activity.
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