On Thursday 23rd March, Instagram announced that they have rolled out Two-Factor Authentication to all users which they have been trialing for the past few months.
It’s a relatively straightforward process to complete, and one that we’d recommend for all Instagram users.
Particularly considering the increased level of hacks to social accounts over the past few months across numerous networks.
So to help you prevent this happening, here’s our step by step guide on how to enable Instagram two-factor authentication that you can complete in less than 5 minutes.
How to Activate Instagram Two-Factor Authentication: Quick Guide
Activating Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) on Instagram bolsters your account’s security. Here’s a condensed guide to get you secured in minutes:
- Access Settings: Navigate to your profile, then tap on the settings icon.
- Find 2FA: Scroll to “Account” and select “Two-Factor Authentication.”
- Phone Number Registration: Register your mobile number if you haven’t done so already.
- Verification Code: Enter the 6-digit code sent via SMS to your phone.
- Backup Codes: Save the provided backup codes for future scenarios where SMS verification isn’t possible.
This simple process secures your account by adding an essential layer of protection against unauthorized access.
Step 1. Access Settings
Open Instagram on your device and select your profile in the bottom right corner. When you land on your profile page, select “Settings” in the top-right corner of your screen.
Step 2. Find 2FA
Scroll down to the “Account” section and tap on Two-Factor Authentication to begin the process.
Step 3. Phone Number Registration
If you haven’t registered your phone number with your account yet, you’ll need to do that now. This is necessary to enable Two-Factor Authentication. So, any concerns you have about Instagram and Facebook having your phone number will need to be set aside if you want to use this security feature.
Step 4. Verification Code
Enter the mobile phone number you use Instagram with. This number will be used for all future correspondence with Two-Factor Authentication, so ensure it’s the correct one.
Step 5.
You’ll now receive a 6 digit security code by SMS. Open the text and enter the confirmation code (without the hyphen).
Step 6. Backup Codes
Once completed, Instagram will present you with a list of 5 Backup codes, that it will automatically screenshot for you.
These are used for instances, where you can’t access your account or are unable to receive Instagram security codes by text. So it’s a good idea to move that screenshot to a folder for safe keeping, in the event you misplace your phone.
That’s it. You now have Instagram Two-Factor Authentication active for your account.
Why You Need to Activate Instagram 2FA
Given the rising incidents of social media hacks, activating 2FA on Instagram isn’t just recommended; it’s essential for:
- Enhanced Security: Adds an extra verification step, significantly reducing the risk of unauthorized access.
- Protection Against Hacks: Guards against the increasingly common social media account breaches.
- Peace of Mind: Offers reassurance that your personal data and account are better protected.
Activating 2FA is a straightforward action that provides a substantial increase in security, making it a crucial step for all Instagram users.