Reviving Your Old Account: A Guide to Accessing Instagram from 2018

If you’ve been away from Instagram since 2018 and can’t seem to access your old account, don’t worry. Recovering your Instagram account is possible, and this guide will help you step by step. Whether you forgot your password, your account got hacked, or you accidentally deleted it, there are ways to get back in. Let’s break down the methods you can use to revive your old account Instagram 2018 and get back to sharing your favorite moments.

Key Takeaways

You can recover your old Instagram account using your email, phone number, or Facebook.

If your account was hacked, there are specific steps to regain control.

You can reactivate a temporarily deactivated account easily, but permanently deleted accounts have stricter rules.

If you lost access to your email or phone, Instagram offers support options to help you recover your account.

Prevent future issues by using strong passwords and enabling two-factor authentication.

Understanding Instagram Account Recovery

It's easy to lose access to your Instagram account. Maybe you forgot your password, or perhaps something more serious happened, like a hacking incident. Whatever the reason, knowing how to get back in is essential. Let's break down why account recovery matters, the common reasons you might need it, and the different ways you can try to regain access.

Importance of Account Recovery

Losing access to your Instagram account can be a real headache. It's not just about missing out on posts from friends; it could mean losing years of memories, connections, and even business opportunities. For many, Instagram is a primary way to stay in touch and share their lives. For others, it's a crucial tool for marketing and sales. Getting your account back quickly minimizes disruption and prevents potential damage to your personal or professional brand.

Common Reasons for Account Loss

Here are some typical reasons people find themselves locked out:

Forgotten Passwords: This is probably the most common reason. We all have too many passwords to remember!

Hacking: Unfortunately, accounts get hacked. Someone might have guessed your password or used a phishing scam to get your login info.

Accidental Deletion: It happens! Maybe you meant to deactivate, but accidentally hit the delete button.

Violation of Terms: Instagram might suspend or ban your account if you violate their community guidelines.

Overview of Recovery Methods

There are several ways to try and recover your account, depending on the situation. Here's a quick rundown:

Email Recovery: If you have access to the email address associated with your account, you can usually reset your password.

Phone Number Recovery: Similar to email, you can use your phone number to receive a verification code and reset your password.

Facebook Login: If you linked your Instagram account to Facebook, you might be able to log in through Facebook.

Instagram Support: If all else fails, you can contact Instagram's support team for help. This might involve providing proof of identity.

Account recovery can be a stressful process, but don't give up! Instagram usually has systems in place to help you prove your identity and regain access. Just be patient and follow the instructions carefully.

Recovering Your Old Account Instagram 2018

It's wild to think about how much the internet changes in just a few years. If you're trying to get back into an old Instagram account from around 2018, things might look a little different than you remember. Don't worry, though, it's usually still possible to get back in. The key is remembering as much information as possible about the account.

Using Your Email Address

This is often the easiest way to recover your account. Instagram will send a password reset link to the email address associated with the account. Here's what to do:

Go to the Instagram login screen.

Tap "Forgot password?"

Enter the email address you used back in 2018.

Check your email for a reset link from Instagram.

Follow the instructions in the email to create a new password.

Make sure to check your spam or junk folder if you don't see the email in your inbox. Sometimes, these automated emails end up there.

Utilizing Your Phone Number

If you linked a phone number to your Instagram account, you can use that to recover it. The process is similar to using your email address:

Go to the Instagram login screen.

Tap "Forgot password?"

Select the option to use your phone number.

Instagram will send a verification code to your phone via SMS.

Enter the code to verify your identity.

Follow the prompts to reset your password.

Accessing Through Facebook

If you connected your Instagram account to your Facebook account back in 2018, you might be able to log in directly through Facebook. This can be a quick and easy way to bypass the password reset process. Here's how:

On the Instagram login screen, look for the "Log in with Facebook" option.

Tap the button and follow the prompts to log in using your Facebook credentials.

If your accounts are linked, you should be automatically logged into your Instagram account.

It's worth noting that Instagram's interface and security protocols have evolved since 2018. So, the exact wording of buttons and options might be slightly different. Just take your time and read each screen carefully. You'll get there!

Steps to Recover a Hacked Instagram Account

Identifying Signs of Hacking

Okay, so you think your Instagram's been hacked? First things first, don't panic! But do act fast. Keep an eye out for weird stuff happening. Did your profile pic suddenly change to a stock photo of a llama? Are you following accounts you'd never dream of? Are DMs being sent that you definitely didn't write? These are all red flags. Another big sign is if you get an email saying your email address or phone number on the account has been changed, and you didn't do it. Basically, if something feels off, it probably is. Here's a quick rundown:

Unfamiliar posts or stories

Follow requests to random accounts

Weird DMs sent from your account

Changes to your profile info (bio, name, email, phone number)

Initiating the Recovery Process

Alright, so you're pretty sure you've been hacked. Now what? Head straight to Instagram's help center. You'll want to start the account recovery process ASAP. On the login screen, there should be a "Forgot password?" or "Need more help?" option. Tap that. Instagram will then ask you to verify your identity, usually by sending a code to your email or phone number. If the hacker changed that info, there should be an option like "I can't access this email or phone number." This will start a more in-depth recovery process where you might have to provide more info to prove it's really you. Be prepared to answer security questions or even submit a photo of yourself holding a code Instagram sends you. It's a pain, but it's all about making sure the real owner gets the account back.

Securing Your Account After Recovery

Congrats, you got your account back! Now, let's make sure this doesn't happen again. First, change your password to something super strong – think a mix of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Don't use the same password you use for other accounts! Then, and this is super important, turn on two-factor authentication (2FA). This means that even if someone knows your password, they'll also need a code from your phone to log in. It's like having a double lock on your door. Also, review any third-party apps connected to your Instagram account and remove any you don't recognize or use anymore. Finally, be careful about clicking links in DMs or emails, especially if they seem suspicious. Phishing attempts are a common way hackers get into accounts.

Securing your account is an ongoing process, not a one-time fix. Stay vigilant, keep your information updated, and be wary of anything that seems too good to be true. A little bit of caution can go a long way in preventing future headaches.

Reactivate Your Instagram Account After Deletion

So, you deleted your Instagram account. Maybe it was a rash decision, or maybe you just needed a break. Whatever the reason, you're now wondering if you can get it back. Let's break down the process of reactivating your account after deletion.

Temporary Deactivation vs. Permanent Deletion

First, it's important to understand the difference between temporary deactivation and permanent deletion. If you only deactivated your account, you can easily reactivate it by simply logging back in. All your content will be right where you left it. However, if you chose to permanently delete your account, the process is a bit more complicated. Permanent deletion means Instagram starts the process of removing your account, and after a certain period, it's gone for good.

Steps to Reactivate Within 30 Days

If you deleted your account less than 30 days ago, there's still hope! Here's what you need to do:

Open the Instagram app or go to the Instagram website.

Enter your username and password.

Follow the prompts to reactivate your account. Instagram will likely ask you to confirm that you want to reactivate.

If everything goes smoothly, your account should be back to normal. It's like it never left! If you are having trouble with your password, you can always try to recover an Instagram password.

What to Do After 30 Days

Unfortunately, if it's been more than 30 days since you deleted your account, there's no way to reactivate it. Instagram's policy states that after this period, the account is permanently removed from their servers. This means your profile, photos, videos, comments, likes, and followers are all gone. You'll have to create a new account if you want to get back on Instagram.

It's a bummer, but that's the reality. Once the 30-day window closes, your old account is unrecoverable. You can, however, use the same email address or phone number to create a new account. Just remember that your old username will likely be gone, as it's not reusable after permanent deletion.

Recovering Without Standard Credentials

Sometimes, things get tricky. What happens when you can't get into your email or phone number, the usual ways to prove it's you? Don't worry, you might still have options. It's not ideal, but Instagram does have some backup plans.

When You Can't Access Email or Phone

Okay, so you're locked out of your email and can't get texts on your phone. First, breathe. It's a pain, but it's not necessarily the end. This often happens if your email itself was compromised, which can be a real headache. The key here is to remember any other information you used when setting up your account. Do you remember the exact date you created the account? Any old passwords? Any details you can recall will help.

Using Instagram's Support Options

Instagram has a support system designed for these situations. You'll need to go through their help center, which can feel like a maze, but stick with it. Look for options like "I can't access my email or phone number." They'll probably ask you a bunch of questions to verify your identity. Be prepared to provide as much detail as possible. This might include:

Your username

The email address you think is associated with the account (even if you can't access it)

Any phone numbers you might have used

Details about when you last used the account

Providing Identification for Recovery

This is where it can get a little more involved. Instagram might ask you to provide a photo of yourself holding a piece of paper with a code they give you. This is to prove you're a real person and that you have access to a camera. Make sure the photo is clear and that the code is legible. They might also ask for a copy of your driver's license or passport. It feels invasive, but it's to make sure they're giving the account back to the right person.

It's important to be patient during this process. Instagram's support team is probably dealing with a lot of requests, so it might take a few days (or even longer) to get a response. Keep checking your email (the one you provided, even if you can't access the old one) for updates. And be polite! It can be frustrating, but being nice to the support staff can only help your case.

Preventing Future Account Issues

It's way easier to keep your account safe than to try and get it back after something bad happens. Here's how to make sure your Instagram stays secure.

Creating Strong Passwords

Your password is the first line of defense. Don't use something obvious like your birthday or 'password123'. Think of a phrase that's easy for you to remember but hard for others to guess. Mix in numbers and symbols too. And seriously, don't use the same password for everything! If one account gets hacked, they all could.

Enabling Two-Factor Authentication

Two-factor authentication (2FA) is like adding an extra lock to your door. When you log in, Instagram sends a code to your phone. You need both your password and that code to get in. Even if someone figures out your password, they still can't access your account without your phone. Go to your security settings and turn on two factor authentication – it's a must!

Recognizing Phishing Attempts

Phishing is when someone tries to trick you into giving them your login info. They might send you an email or message that looks like it's from Instagram, saying there's a problem with your account. Always be suspicious of these messages. Never click on links in emails or messages asking for your password or personal info. Go directly to the Instagram app or website to check your account status. If something seems off, it probably is.

Think of your Instagram account like your house. You wouldn't leave the door unlocked, would you? Strong passwords and 2FA are like locking the door and setting up an alarm system. And being aware of phishing attempts is like watching out for strangers trying to break in.

Contacting Instagram for Further Assistance

Sometimes, you just can't seem to get your account back on your own. It happens! Maybe you've tried everything, and you're still locked out. That's when it's time to reach out to Instagram directly. It can be a bit of a process, but it's worth it if you really need to get back into your account.

When to Reach Out to Support

Okay, so when should you actually contact Instagram support? Well, if you've tried all the usual recovery methods – email, phone number, Facebook – and nothing's working, that's a good sign it's time to get in touch. Also, if you suspect your account has been hacked and you can't regain control, don't wait. The sooner you reach out, the better.

Here's a quick list of situations where contacting support is a good idea:

You can't access the email or phone number associated with your account.

You suspect your account has been hacked.

You've tried all other recovery methods without success.

You're receiving error messages you don't understand.

What Information to Provide

When you contact Instagram support, be ready to give them as much detail as possible. The more information you provide, the easier it will be for them to help you. Make sure to include your username, the email address and phone number associated with the account (if you remember them), and a detailed description of the problem you're experiencing. If you have any screenshots of error messages or other relevant information, include those too!

Here's a list of things to have ready:

Your Instagram username.

The email address and phone number associated with the account.

A detailed description of the problem.

Any relevant screenshots.

Any previous usernames or email addresses you might have used.

Expected Response Times from Instagram

Alright, let's be real: Instagram support isn't exactly known for its lightning-fast response times. Because they have so many users, it can take a few days – or even longer – to get a reply. Be patient, and don't bombard them with multiple requests, as that can actually slow things down. Just submit your request and wait for them to get back to you. In the meantime, keep checking your email (including your spam folder) for any updates.

It's worth noting that response times can vary depending on the complexity of your issue and the volume of requests Instagram is currently handling. So, try to be understanding and persistent, and hopefully, they'll be able to help you get your account back.

Wrapping It Up

So, there you have it! Getting back into your Instagram account from 2018 isn’t as tough as it seems. Whether you forgot your password, got hacked, or even deleted your account, there are ways to get back in. Just remember to act fast, especially if you deleted your account recently. And hey, while you’re at it, make sure to keep your account safe with a strong password and two-factor authentication. If you run into any issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to Instagram support. Now, go ahead and start sharing those memories again!

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I recover my Instagram account if I forgot my password?

You can reset your password by clicking on 'Forgot password?' on the login page. Then, follow the instructions sent to your email or phone.

What should I do if my Instagram account was hacked?

If your account was hacked, go to Instagram's 'hacked' page and follow the steps to secure your account and regain access.

Can I recover my Instagram account after deleting it?

If you deleted your account less than 30 days ago, you can log back in to reactivate it. After 30 days, the account is permanently deleted.

What if I can't access my email or phone number for recovery?

If you can't access your email or phone, use the 'Need more help?' option on the login page and follow the prompts to recover your account.

How can I prevent my Instagram account from being hacked?

To keep your account safe, use a strong password, enable two-factor authentication, and be cautious of suspicious links.

How do I contact Instagram for help?

You can reach out to Instagram through the app or website under the 'Help' section. Provide as much information as possible about your issue.