Instagram is a massive part of our lives in 2024, whether we’re scrolling for inspiration, showcasing our work, or simply connecting with friends. But as we share more of ourselves online, it’s crucial to protect our accounts. In recent years, the number of security breaches has risen, leaving many people vulnerable to hackers and malicious activity. So, if you’re wondering about the ways to increase Instagram security in 2024, you’re not alone. There are practical steps you can take right now to safeguard your profile and stay ahead of cyber threats.
While it might be tempting to cut corners by looking for shortcuts like buy followers to boost your social proof, real security comes from creating strong, well-rounded protections around your account. Let’s dive into the best strategies to keep your Instagram secure so you can focus on building your brand or personal presence without worrying about the “what ifs.”
How to Improve the Security of Instagram in 2024?
Here are some ways to increase the security of your Instagram account in 2024:
Start with Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
One of the first ways to increase Instagram security in 2024 is by enabling Two-Factor Authentication (2FA). It’s like putting your account behind a locked door with a secret passcode. Even if someone gets their hands on your password (which we hope isn’t the case), they still won’t be able to access your account without the second factor.
Think of 2FA as a digital bouncer that keeps the wrong people out. It sends you a text message or a notification through an authenticator app whenever someone tries to log into your account. You’ll need to input a special code to prove it’s you.
Here’s how to set it up:
- Open Instagram and go to your profile page.
- Tap on the three horizontal lines in the upper-right corner.
- Select “Settings,” then “Security,” and choose “Two-Factor Authentication.”
- Choose your method: either via text message or an authentication app like Google Authenticator.
- Follow the prompts to confirm and complete the setup.
- Once activated, 2FA can be a game-changer in preventing unwanted access to your account. It’s one of the easiest and most effective ways to increase Instagram security in 2024.
Strong and Unique Passwords
You’ve probably heard this advice a million times, but let’s be real—how many of us actually follow it? Using a strong, unique password is the second major step to increasing Instagram security. It’s like setting the most secure lock on your door—but it’s only effective if you don’t leave the key under the mat for everyone to find.
Avoid using easily guessable information like your pet’s name, your birthday, or any other details that people might know or can easily find online. Instead, create a password that’s a jumble of numbers, letters, and special characters. For example, instead of “Instagram123,” try something more complex like “I$2024gR@ph@!” The more complex, the better.
If the thought of remembering these long, intricate passwords makes your head spin, don’t worry. Consider using a password manager. These tools generate and store your passwords securely, so you don’t have to keep them all in your head.
And here’s a hot tip: never reuse passwords. That’s an open invitation for trouble. If one account gets compromised, it can often lead to other accounts being hacked, too. So make sure each one is unique!
Be Cautious with Third-Party Apps
In the world of Instagram growth, third-party apps often seem like a convenient shortcut to success. But here’s the thing—these apps can sometimes be as shady as a used car salesman. If you’re using apps that promise to increase your followers and engagement or help you analyze your account, you could be putting your account at risk. One of the ways to increase Instagram security in 2024 is to be very careful about which third-party apps you allow to access your account.
When you give these apps permission to interact with your Instagram account, you’re opening a door that could lead to unwanted breaches. Always review the apps that have access to your account and remove any that you don’t trust or use regularly.
Here’s how to check and manage third-party apps:
- Go to your Instagram profile.
- Tap the three horizontal lines in the top-right corner.
- Select “Settings”> “Security”> “Apps and Websites.”
- You’ll see a list of all active apps connected to your account.
- Remove any apps that seem unfamiliar or unnecessary.
Avoid Phishing Scams
Phishing scams have become an epidemic on Instagram, and they are one of the most dangerous threats to account security. These scams are designed to trick you into giving away personal information, like your Instagram login or credit card details. One of the sneakiest ways hackers try to breach your account is by pretending to be Instagram itself, asking you to verify your information or click on suspicious links. They may even tell you that your account has been compromised and that you need to act quickly.
To protect yourself from phishing scams, always think twice before clicking on any link, especially if it comes from an unsolicited message. Here are a few red flags to watch for:
- Unfamiliar email addresses or usernames that don’t match Instagram’s official accounts.
- A sense of urgency or threats to your account.
- Requests for sensitive information like your password, credit card details, or personal identification number (PIN).
When in doubt, always go directly to the Instagram app and check your account status. Don’t click on any links from suspicious sources. If you do receive a message that feels off, report it immediately.
Regularly Update Instagram
Another simple but effective way to increase Instagram security is to make sure your app is up to date. App updates often include security patches that address vulnerabilities, and skipping updates is like leaving the back door open for hackers. Instagram frequently rolls out updates to improve security and functionality, so don’t ignore that little notification that pops up asking you to update your app.
To make sure you have the latest version:
- For iOS: Go to the App Store and tap “Updates.” If Instagram is listed, hit “Update.”
- For Android: Go to the Google Play Store, tap “My Apps & Games,” and update Instagram if necessary.
Monitor Account Activity
Regularly checking your Instagram account activity is a good habit and one of the ways to increase Instagram security in 2024. Instagram offers a feature that allows you to see where your account has been accessed from, including which devices and locations. If you see any activity that you don’t recognize, it’s time to take action.
To monitor your login activity:
- Go to your Instagram profile.
- Tap the three horizontal lines and select “Settings.”
- Choose “Security” and then tap “Login Activity.”
- Review all the devices that have accessed your account.
Be Mindful of What You Share
Another way to increase Instagram security is to be mindful of what you share online. While it’s tempting to share everything—especially if you’re building a brand or trying to engage with your followers—oversharing can put you at risk. Avoid sharing sensitive personal details, such as your exact location, vacation plans, or anything that could be used to steal your identity.
Instagram has privacy settings that let you control who can see your posts, stories, and other content. Take advantage of these settings and limit your posts to your trusted followers. You can even hide certain posts from specific users if necessary.
The Bottom Line
In 2024, ways to increase Instagram security are more essential than ever. From enabling two-factor authentication and using a strong password to managing third-party apps and recognizing phishing scams, there are several key actions you can take to protect your account. Remember, ways to increase Instagram security in 2024 are all about taking small steps that make a big difference in keeping your account safe. So, don’t wait for something bad to happen—take action now and lock down your account!