The security of your Instagram account is important. I’m happy to admit that I’m no expert when it comes to technology. I’m often behind the eight ball with signing up to the newest phones, apps and software. That being said, I understand how crucial it is that we have strong security for our social media and email accounts. After recently seeing so many friends online get hacked, it has scared me into checking the security of my Instagram page.
It’s one thing to lose a personal account but another entirely to lose hours worth of content and work. It would be devastating to have to start again, even just for a small page like mine.
Here are 5 tips to boost the security of your Instagram page:
1. Stronger password
Create a stronger password. Try to avoid using the same one across different platforms. It’s a pain to do but thankfully we no longer have to remember dozens (if not hundreds) of passwords. You can create your own unique password or choose the suggested password that comes up on your phone, and then opt to save them. There is password generator software that can securely remember passwords for you such as Dashlane, LastPass and Nordpass or you can simply do it through your phone.
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2. Two-factor authentication
Two-factor authentication works by providing an additional layer of security to Instagram. It requires an extra login credential to gain access to your account, other than just your username and password. This credential is something that belongs to you, making it impossible for hackers to take over your account if they only have your stolen login details.
This is done by tapping on the three little lines in the top right hand corner. Next, click on Settings, Security, Two-Factor Authentication. Simply follow the steps provided to set up.
3. Download an authentication app
In order to use Two-Factor Authentication, you will need to download an authentication app. Instagram suggests a few in the previous step. I’ve downloaded Duo for free and it does the job.
Other recommended apps are Authy Google Authenticator and Microsoft Authenticator. They allow you to log back into your account if you forget your password or are hacked and are another useful safety layer to have.
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4. Download and save your data
It is one thing to protect the security of your password and login details, but another to make sure your data is safe. Many of us have been unlucky to lose valuable documents or photos in the past. I remember back in the days of floppy disks when mine got damaged in my school bag. It wouldn’t let me access any of my assignments and I had a major freakout.
I had another experience where I lost hours of work on writing school reports because my USB broke. I hadn’t gotten around to saving it on my laptop or the Cloud. Lesson learnt – make sure you have everything backed up. You can download and save your data in the security section of Instagram too. If you have content that you don’t want to lose, ensure you do this step.
5. Check security on other apps too
If you have followed the steps so far, well done! You have strengthened the security of your Instagram account. Now it’s time to check the security on your other apps too. Tighten your passwords and security for your email. Take some time to go through your other accounts like Facebook, YouTube, TikTok, Pinterest, X and SnapChat.
This is especially important if you are a content creator or business owner. It can take some time to do but is a whole lot better than getting locked out or losing all of your hard work.
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Strengthening the security of your Instagram account and other social media apps is worth prioritising. We don’t always think of doing these things until it’s too late. Just like with insurance, it’s too late to insure your house after a fire.
The best time to sign up for house and contents insurance is the day you move in. It’s too late to strengthen the security of your Instagram account once you’ve been hacked. The best time to do it is now.
If you don’t have time right now, be sure to schedule a reminder on your phone to do it as soon as you can.
Thoughts? I’d love to hear from you below or connect with you over on Instagram or Facebook.
Melanie Wegener
