Instagram is working on new ways to recover hacked accounts
Instagram is working on a new set of changes to safeguard user accounts from being hacked and to offer an easier way to recover those that have been compromised. The move comes just after several users reported cases of hacked accounts and complained about no easy way to get back into them. Here's everything you need to know about the incoming changes.
In-app recovery process being tested
Currently, you either have to wait for an email or fill out a support form to regain access to a hacked Instagram account. The method works but takes a lot of time, which has annoyed many users, even prompted some to seek the help of white-hat hackers. However, the Facebook-owned giant is testing a way to recover accounts right from within the app, easily.
How this method works
According to Instagram, users would be able to use the number/email linked to their account or the ones they used to sign up on Instagram. After this, you'll get a six-digit code on the entered contact and will be able to access the compromised account. To note, the recovery process will begin by entering an incorrect password multiple times or hitting 'Need more help'.
So, you will get security even after password change
As the new technique would work even with the number used while signing up on Instagram, you can recover accounts when the attacker has changed the number or email linked with it.
Also, email-based codes won't work after recovery
In some cases, hackers could attempt a second break-in using access to your email or mobile number. However, the photo-sharing site claims it won't happen once your account has been recovered. "We will take additional measures to ensure a hacker cannot use codes sent to your email address [or] phone number to access your account from a different device."
No word on final roll out of changes
As of now, there is no word on when the new account recovery capabilities will be available for users around the globe. However, the company has already enabled an option to lockdown usernames for a specific period of time if and when account-related changes are made - whether by you or a hacker who got into your account.
