Scammers target Instagram - How to avoid trap
Photo: Instagram (Getty Images)
Users of Instagram worldwide have faced a wave of phishing messages, in which attackers attempt to gain access to accounts by posing as the platform’s official support service, according to a publication by The Independent.
Phishing emails
Cybersecurity experts report a surge in suspicious emails and urge users not to click links and to carefully verify the sender.
Instagram confirms that legitimate password-reset emails are sent only from the domain @mail.instagram.com, which helps distinguish official messages from fraudulent ones.
Why attacks are increasing
The spike in such messages may be linked to a recent data leak, in which information related to 17.5 million Instagram accounts reportedly appeared online. Experts warn this significantly raises the risk of phishing and account takeovers.
Security recommendations
To protect accounts, Instagram advises enabling two-factor authentication and using unique, strong passwords, both for Instagram and for the linked email account.
Following these steps substantially reduces the likelihood of account compromise and personal data loss.
Authorities have also identified new scam schemes targeting vulnerable groups, underscoring the importance of vigilance across platforms.
