INSTAGRAM has spoken out after a mysterious password reset email sent to users sparked fears of a huge data breach.
The Meta-owned app has urged people to ignore the email which was sent out over the weekend.
But the company has denied claims that the unexpected message has anything to do with a breach.
Cybersecurity experts Malwarebytes claimed that the sensitive information of 17.5million Instagram accounts had been stolen.
This was said to include usernames, physical addresses, phone numbers and email addresses.
They also alleged that the data “is available for sale on the dark web and can be abused by cybercriminals”.
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But Meta says there was no breach – instead there was an “issue” that allowed someone to trigger password reset emails.
The flaw has now been fixed.
“We fixed an issue that let an external party request password reset emails for some people,” the firm wrote on X.
“There was no breach of our systems and your Instagram accounts are secure.
“You can ignore those emails — sorry for any confusion.”
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How to keep your account secure
If you’re worried about your account there are ways to up security.
The best way is two factor authentication.
When switched on, Instagram will ask you for a special code to gain access to your account as well as your usual password.
You can get the code from a dedicated authentication app, such as Google Authenticator, a text message or WhatsApp.
You can switch this on by opening Instagram following these steps:
- Tap your profile icon in the bottom right
- Tap the three line menu in the top right
- Select Account Centre
- Select Password and security
- Tap Two-factor authentication
- Follow the on-screen instructions to set it up
You can also set up a verification selfie should you ever be locked out of your account.
