To delete a locked Instagram account, especially one you cannot access due to a forgotten password, you must first regain access. Instagram's security measures prevent deletion without knowing the password, ensuring that only the account owner can initiate the process. Therefore, the essential first step is to reset your password.
Regaining Access to Your Locked Instagram Account
You cannot delete an Instagram account without knowing its password. This security measure is in place to protect users from unauthorized deletion of their accounts. Instead, you need to use the "Forgot password" function to reset your password and then proceed with the deletion process.
There are several methods Instagram provides to help you reset your password and regain access:
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Email or Phone | Instagram can send a password reset link or code to the email address or phone number associated with your account. This is the most common and straightforward method. |
| Linked Facebook Account | If your Instagram account is linked to your Facebook profile, you might be able to reset your Instagram password through your Facebook login. |
| Username or Profile Picture | If you don't have access to your registered email or phone, Instagram might offer options to verify your identity using your username or by recognizing your profile picture from past logins on a trusted device. |
Steps to Reset Your Instagram Password
Follow these steps to reset your password and regain control of your account:
- Go to the Instagram Login Page: Open the Instagram app on your mobile device or visit the Instagram website (e.g., www.instagram.com).
- Access "Forgot password?":
- On Mobile: Tap "Forgot password?" below the login fields.
- On Web: Click "Forgot password?" next to the "Log In" button.
- Identify Your Account: Enter your associated email address, phone number, or username. Then, tap/click "Send Login Link" or "Next."
- Receive Reset Link/Code:
- If you chose email or phone number, Instagram will send a login link or a verification code to your registered contact method.
- If you chose to reset via Facebook, follow the prompts to log in through Facebook.
- Create a New Password: Click the link in the email/SMS or enter the code to be redirected to a page where you can set a new, secure password for your account.
Once you've successfully reset your password, you can log in to your Instagram account.
Deleting Your Instagram Account After Regaining Access
After you've regained access to your Instagram account by resetting your password, you can proceed with the deletion. Instagram offers two primary options: temporary deactivation or permanent deletion.
Options for Deletion: Temporary Deactivation vs. Permanent Deletion
- Temporarily Deactivate Your Account: This option allows you to hide your profile, photos, comments, and likes from other users temporarily. You can reactivate your account at any time by simply logging back in. This is suitable if you just need a break but might want to return later.
- Permanently Delete Your Account: This action is irreversible. Once deleted, your profile, photos, videos, comments, likes, and followers will be permanently removed. You will not be able to retrieve any content, and your username will be available for others to use.
How to Permanently Delete Your Instagram Account
To permanently delete your Instagram account:
- Go to the "Delete Your Account" Page: Log in to your Instagram account using a web browser (you cannot delete your account permanently through the mobile app directly). Navigate to the Instagram Delete Your Account page.
- Select a Reason: From the dropdown menu, select a reason why you're deleting your account.
- Re-enter Your Password: For security, you will be prompted to re-enter your new password.
- Confirm Permanent Deletion: Click or tap the "Delete [username]" button.
Important Considerations
- 30-Day Grace Period: After requesting permanent deletion, Instagram typically deactivates your account for 30 days. During this period, your account will be hidden, but if you log back in, the deletion request will be canceled, and your account will be restored.
- Irreversibility: After the 30-day grace period, your account and all its data will be permanently deleted and cannot be recovered.
- Data Download: Before deleting, consider downloading a copy of your Instagram data (photos, videos, comments, etc.) if you wish to retain them. You can do this through your account settings under "Your activity" > "Download your information."
