By Social Media Experts LTD, UK | Updated June 2025
Instagram: it’s where we flex, flirt, and scroll endlessly through dog reels. But in 2025, it’s also prime hunting ground for cybercriminals who want to nick your account like a seagull snatching chips in Brighton.
Whether you’re an influencer, a business owner, or just someone who really likes filters, this guide will break down how Instagram accounts are getting hacked in 2025 — and, more importantly, how to protect yours like a digital Fort Knox.
Because where attention goes, scammers follow.
Instagram now boasts over 2.6 billion users, and accounts have become digital real estate. Some are worth thousands, even millions. Whether it's for phishing, scamming followers, or flipping accounts like dodgy trainers — your Insta is a goldmine to the wrong people.
What's happening?
Sophisticated fake login pages that look exactly like Instagram’s interface are sent via DMs, WhatsApp, or even Google Ads. Tap, enter your credentials, boom — they’re in.
Example:
You get a message:
"Hi, your Reel has been featured on Instagram UK's homepage. Log in to confirm your creator badge."
Link looks legit. But it’s insta-verified.com, not instagram.com.
How to stop it:
What’s happening?
Hackers steal your session token — the bit that says “Yes, this is [@yourname], they’re logged in” — via malicious browser extensions or dodgy Wi-Fi.
Example:
You’re using free café Wi-Fi in Shoreditch. You browse Instagram Web. Next day? Locked out, with someone selling crypto in your Stories.
How to stop it:
What’s happening?
You get DMs or comments from accounts that look like Instagram Support. They claim your account’s been flagged for copyright or impersonation. Classic panic tactic.
Example:
@insta.support.verification_help.uk
follows you and messages:
"Your account will be suspended in 24 hours due to multiple violations. Tap here to appeal."
How to stop it:
What’s happening?
Hackers use databases of leaked usernames/passwords (from other sites) and try them on Instagram.
Example:
If your ASOS login was “johnsmith123 / qwerty123” and you used the same combo for Instagram — well, it’s game over.
How to stop it:
What’s happening?
Hackers trick your mobile provider into giving them control of your phone number, intercepting SMS 2FA codes and taking over your account.
Real UK case:
In Manchester, an influencer lost access after their number was ported to a new SIM. It took them *weeks* to recover their IG (and sanity).
How to stop it:
Here’s your idiot-proof Insta-lockdown routine:
Settings → Security → Apps and Websites
If your account’s compromised:
In 2025, Instagram is more than an app — it’s your portfolio, your brand, your business, even your social proof. Securing it isn’t just smart — it’s essential.
And hey, if you ever feel overwhelmed, give us a shout. We’re not just here to drop truth bombs — we also help British businesses grow safely online, without any hacker drama.