Threat to Instagram Accounts Persists: Hacks Continue Even After Meta's Update

Instagram Account Hack Risk: Over the past few days, reports of Instagram accounts being hijacked have been surfacing. Despite Meta's claims of having fixed this issue, the threat has not yet been completely averted.

Instagram Account Hack Risk: If you use Instagram, it is essential to remain alert. A few days ago, reports emerged stating that hackers were compromising high-profile Instagram accounts by exploiting a security vulnerability. Subsequently, Meta announced that it had resolved the issue; however, the problem has not yet been entirely eliminated. Many users have complained that this issue persists, and their accounts continue to be hijacked. Let's take a look at how this entire situation began and what measures should now be adopted to protect your account.

Hackers Are Leveraging Meta AI

Hackers are utilizing Meta AI to compromise Instagram accounts. Using a VPN, hackers first trick the system into believing that they are logging in from the exact geographical location associated with their target account. Subsequently, they navigate to the Instagram login page and select the "Forgot Password" option, which redirects them to the Meta AI support feature. While interacting with the AI ​​chatbot, hackers use specific prompts to request the addition of a new email address to the account. Once the request is accepted, Instagram sends a verification code to that account, which the hackers then use to take over the account.

Meta Had Claimed to Have Fixed the Issue

After this issue came to light, Meta claimed to have resolved it. The company stated that the security vulnerability had been patched and that the affected accounts were being secured. However, the company did not disclose the exact number of accounts that had been compromised due to this issue.

Users Claim: The Issue Has Not Been Resolved

According to media reports, despite assurances from Meta, many users are complaining that the issue has not been completely resolved. One user claimed that their secondary Instagram account was hijacked even though multi-factor authentication was enabled. Furthermore, the password for their primary account was also changed without authorization. Similarly, Esther Crawford—a Director of Product Management at Meta herself—has also reported that her Instagram account was compromised.

What Are the Preventive Measures?

Keep two-factor authentication enabled on your Instagram account.
Always use a strong and unique password.
Avoid using the same password across different accounts and platforms.
Immediately change your password if you notice any suspicious activity linked to your account.