Two-factor authentication keeps your account secure — until you lose access to the second factor. If you deleted your authenticator app, lost your phone, or changed your number, you're locked out. Here's how to get back in.

Option 1: Use backup codes

When you enabled 2FA, Instagram showed you a set of one-time backup codes. If you saved them, this is the fastest fix [citation:5][citation:14].

  • On the 2FA screen, look for "Try another method" or "Use backup code".
  • Enter an unused backup code.
  • If valid, you'll be logged in. Each code works once [citation:5].

Option 2: Get codes from a linked Facebook account

If your Instagram was linked to Facebook before you lost 2FA access, you can get backup codes through Facebook [citation:10].

  • Log into your linked Facebook account.
  • Go to Accounts Center.
  • Select Password and security → Two-factor authentication.
  • Choose your Instagram account.
  • Under "Other methods," select Backup codes [citation:10].

Option 3: Trusted contact verification

Instagram can verify your identity through people you've chatted with on the platform [citation:10].

  • Go to instagram.com/hacked.
  • Select the login code issue.
  • Enter your username or email.
  • Instagram shows a list of your frequent contacts. Choose two.
  • When they approve, you receive a backup code by email [citation:10].

Pick people you can reach quickly — the verification has a time limit [citation:10].

Option 4: Identity verification

If none of the above work, Instagram may ask for a government ID. This is the most reliable method when the authenticator is lost [citation:19].

  • On the login screen, choose "I can't access my authenticator app".
  • Select the identity verification option.
  • Upload a photo of your driver's license, passport, or national ID.
  • Meta typically verifies in 24–72 hours, then sends a secure link to reset access [citation:19].

What not to do

  • Don't create a new account. That complicates recovery [citation:19].
  • Don't reset your password repeatedly. That can trigger a temporary block [citation:19].
  • Don't pay anyone claiming they can remove 2FA for you.

What to do with this

Try backup codes first. If you don't have them, check your linked Facebook account. If that doesn't work, use trusted contacts. And if all else fails, submit a government ID. After recovering, immediately re-enable 2FA and save new backup codes somewhere safe.

Next: read what to do if your account gets disabled, or go back to the pitfalls section.