Millions of Instagram users have been warned about unexpected password reset emails, suggesting a possible data breach. Photo / Getty Images
Millions of Instagram users have been warned about unexpected password reset emails, suggesting a possible data breach. Photo / Getty Images
Millions of Instagram users have been urged to stay vigilant after reports emerged of unexpected password reset emails, raising fears of a possible data breach.
Many users say they received multiple emails prompting them to reset their passwords, despite not requesting any changes.
The messages appear to come from Instagramitself, warning that “Instagram has been sent a request to reset your password” and offering links to either reset it or “let us know” if the request wasn’t theirs.
“If you ignore this message, your password will not be changed,” the emails read.
Cybersecurity firm Malwarebytes said most of the emails may be linked to an alleged breach that occurred in late 2024.
According to the firm, hackers may have scraped profile data from around 17.5 million Instagram accounts, including usernames, addresses, phone numbers and emails.
Experts warn users to ignore unprompted password reset emails and avoid clicking on any links.
A screenshot of the emails users received. Photo / Instagram
“Receiving a password reset email doesn’t necessarily mean that your account has been hacked,” the platform said on its website.
“For example, when someone is trying to log into their account or reset their password, they may mistype or misremember their email address or username and enter yours by mistake.
“Only people who know your Instagram password or click the login link in this email can log in to your account.”
The Meta-owned company emphasised that official correspondence only comes from @mail.instagram.com.
“If you do have additional security concerns, you may want to reset your password and enable two-factor authentication,” the platform said.
Meta has not yet confirmed whether Instagram suffered a cybersecurity breach.
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