If you’ve forgotten your Instagram password but are still logged in on your phone or browser, you might think you’re stuck. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to recover or reset your password without losing access to your account. In this article, we’ll walk through exactly how to regain control, while ensuring your account stays secure.
Why It’s Important to Recover Your Password
Being logged in doesn’t mean you’re safe. You could lose access at any time if you log out accidentally, clear browser data, or change devices. Additionally, not having access to your password leaves your account vulnerable to potential security threats.
Start with Instagram Settings
If you’re logged in, you’re in luck. You can change or recover your password directly from within the app or website. Here’s how:
Via the Mobile App
- Open the Instagram app.
- Tap on your profile in the bottom right corner.
- Tap the menu icon (three lines) in the top right.
- Select Settings and privacy, then go to Accounts Center.
- Tap Password and security.
- Choose Change password under your account name.
- You will be prompted to enter your current password. But since you don’t remember it, look for an option to reset it using your linked email or phone.
Via the Web
- Go to the Instagram website and make sure you are logged in.
- Click on your profile icon and go to Settings.
- Select Accounts Center from the sidebar.
- Navigate to Password and security, then click Change password.
- You’ll again have the option to reset your password if you don’t remember the old one.
Using Password Managers or Browsers
If you’ve allowed your browser or a password manager (like Chrome, iCloud Keychain, LastPass, or 1Password) to save your password, you may be able to retrieve it without resetting.
- Chrome: Type chrome://settings/passwords into your address bar and search for Instagram. Click the eye icon next to the saved password.
- Apple/iCloud Keychain: Go to Settings > Passwords on your iPhone, then search for Instagram.
- Other Password Managers: Use the search function to locate your Instagram credentials and view the saved password.
Be aware that for security reasons, your device will likely prompt for authentication (PIN, fingerprint, or Face ID) before revealing the password.
Resetting Your Password (If Necessary)
If you can’t copy or view the saved password and the recovery option through your logged-in session fails, you can always reset your password as a last resort.
To reset your password from your login screen (even if you are still logged in on another device):
- Go to Instagram’s login screen and click Forgot password?
- Enter the username, email address, or phone number associated with your account.
- You’ll receive a link by email or SMS to reset your password.
Once you’ve reset your password, make sure to log into your account on all devices again and update your saved credentials in any password managers you use.
Keeping Your Account Secure
After you’ve reset or recovered your password, it’s smart to take a few additional steps to protect your account:
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA).
- Review login activity in your account settings.
- Remove old or unrecognized devices.
- Avoid using the same password across multiple sites.
To enable 2FA:
- Go to Settings > Accounts Center > Password and security.
- Select Two-factor authentication and follow the prompts to set it up.
Final Thoughts
It’s entirely possible to regain full control of your Instagram account even if you don’t remember your password—so long as you’re still logged in somewhere. Take advantage of your access now to reset your credentials, secure your account, and avoid a bigger issue later.
Having a strong, unique password and using a password manager can make future access simpler and your account more secure. Don’t wait until you’re locked out—solve the problem while you’re still in.
