How to Close a Hacked Instagram Account – Step-by-Step Guide

Getting your Instagram account hacked can be one of the most stressful online experiences. If you can’t recover access, the next best step is to close or delete the account to protect your personal data and prevent misuse.

In this guide, you’ll learn the signs that your account has been hacked, how to request closure, and the precautions you should take afterward.

Signs Your Instagram Account Has Been Hacked

• You can’t log in even though your password is correct.

• Your email or phone number linked to the account has been changed.

• Posts, comments, or messages appear that you didn’t create.

• Followers report receiving strange DMs from your profile.

If these things are happening, your account has likely been compromised.

Step 1: Try to Recover Before Closing

Before shutting down the account completely, try these recovery methods:

1. Use the “Forgot Password” option and reset your password via email or SMS.

2. If your email is changed, check for any Instagram security emails—they often contain a recovery link.

3. Go to the Instagram Help Center and follow the “My Account Was Hacked” process.

If none of these work and the hacker still has control, proceed to closure.

Step 2: Request Account Closure

To close a hacked Instagram account permanently:

1. Visit the Instagram Help Page for hacked accounts.

2. Select “My account was hacked and I want to delete it.”

3. Fill out the form with your account details.

4. Instagram may request proof of identity to confirm you are the real owner.

Once verified, Instagram will remove the account from the platform.

Step 3: Protect Your Personal Data

Even after closure, take extra precautions:

• Change passwords on other platforms (especially if you used the same one).

• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on all accounts.

• Inform friends or followers that your old account was hacked and closed.

This ensures the hacker cannot use your stolen data elsewhere.

Final Thoughts

Having your Instagram hacked is frustrating, but if recovery isn’t possible, closing the account is the safest way to protect your identity. Always use unique passwords, enable 2FA, and avoid suspicious links to reduce future risks.