Fill out the form and click “Send.”
Instagram Help Center |
- Visit the Instagram Help Center (https://help.instagram.com/).
- Click “Privacy and Safety Center.”
- Scroll down to “Issues with Your Account.”
- Click “I can’t log in to my account.”
- Click “I’ve forgotten my password.”
- Follow the instructions on the screen to fill out a form and submit your request.
|
Once you have submitted your request to Instagram Support, they will review it and contact you via email or phone with further instructions on how to reset your password and recover your account.
The Importance of Deactivating Before Deleting
Before permanently deleting your Instagram account, it is crucial to deactivate it temporarily. Deactivation allows you to take a break from the platform without losing your data. Your profile and posts will be hidden from others, and you can reactivate your account anytime within 30 days.
Benefits of Deactivating Your Account
- Preserve Your Data: Your posts, followers, and messages will be safely stored and can be recovered.
- Avoid Permanent Loss: You can return to Instagram later without losing any content.
- Limit Distractions: Deactivation provides space from the platform’s constant notifications and scrolling.
Steps to Deactivate Your Instagram Account
- Log in to Instagram on a web browser.
- Click on the profile icon in the top right corner and select "Settings."
- Scroll down and click on "Temporarily Disable My Account."
- Select a reason for deactivation and re-enter your password to confirm.
Considerations for Permanent Deletion
- Irreversible Process: Once you delete your account, all your data will be permanently lost.
- Avoid Impulsive Decisions: Consider deactivating first to ensure you are certain about the decision.
- Plan for Archive: If you wish to save your content, download your Instagram data before deleting.
- Refund Eligibility: You may not be eligible for refunds on in-app purchases after deleting your account.
How to Delete an Instagram Account Without Password
If you no longer have access to the password associated with your Instagram account, there are still steps you can take to permanently delete your account. Here’s how:
Waiting Period for Deletion Completion
After you submit your deletion request, Instagram initiates a 30-day waiting period. During this time, you can change your mind and cancel the deletion process if you choose. However, once the 30 days have passed, your account will be permanently deleted and all its data will be lost.
Instagram Account Deletion Timelines
Action |
Time Frame |
Deletion request submitted |
Immediate |
Waiting period begins |
Immediately after submission |
Waiting period ends |
30 days after submission |
Account permanently deleted |
After the waiting period ends |
Note: During the waiting period, your account will remain active, and you will be able to use it as usual. However, once the deletion process is complete, there is no way to recover your account or its data.
Reverting the Deletion
If you regret deleting your Instagram account, you have 30 days to restore it. To do so:
1. Reinstall the Instagram App
If you had deleted the Instagram app from your device, reinstall it from the App Store (for iOS) or Google Play (for Android).
2. Log In with the Deleted Account
Enter the username and password of the account you deleted. If you don’t remember your password, you can reset it by clicking “Forgot password?”.
3. Click “Revert to Login”
After entering your login credentials, a pop-up message will appear asking if you want to revert the deletion. Click “Revert to Login”.
4. Confirm Your Choice
On the next screen, you’ll need to confirm your decision to revert the deletion. Click “Yes, I’m sure”.
5. Wait for the Restoration Process
Instagram will now initiate the restoration process, which may take a few minutes. Once complete, your account will be restored.
Additional Notes:
6. Time Limit for Reverting Deletion:
Account Status |
Time Limit for Reverting Deletion |
Temporarily Disabled |
14 days |
Permanently Deleted |
30 days |
7. Data Recovery:
Once an account is permanently deleted, all associated data, including posts, followers, and messages, will be permanently lost.
Recovering Deleted Posts and Information
Deleted Posts
Unfortunately, Instagram does not provide a way to recover permanently deleted posts. However, there may be existing methods to retrieve them. Checking the phone’s recently deleted folder or using third-party software. Remember, these methods may not always succeed.
Archived Posts
Archived posts are not permanently deleted and can be retrieved. To restore an archived post:
- Log in to your Instagram account.
- Tap the profile icon.
- Select “Archive” from the menu.
- Choose the post you want to restore and tap “Show in Profile.”
Downloaded Posts
If you have previously downloaded your Instagram posts, you can access them from your device’s storage. Check the download folder or gallery for saved copies.
DM History
Deleted DM history can be recovered through a “Data Download” request:
- Go to Instagram’s settings.
- Tap “Security” and then “Download Data.”
- Enter your email address and select “Request Download.”
- Once the data is downloaded, search for “Messages” to access DM history.
Attribute |
Recovery Method |
Posts |
Check recently deleted folder, use third-party software (uncertain success) |
Archived Posts |
Restore from “Archive” section |
Downloaded Posts |
Access from device’s storage (if previously downloaded) |
DM History |
Request “Data Download” through Instagram settings |
Deleting Linked Accounts
If you have linked your Instagram account to other social media accounts, such as Facebook or Twitter, you will need to delete these linked accounts before you can delete your Instagram account. To do this, follow these steps:
- Go to your Instagram profile and tap on the three lines in the top right corner.
- Tap on “Settings.”
- Tap on “Linked Accounts.”
- Tap on the account you want to unlink and then tap on “Unlink.”
Once you have unlinked all of your linked accounts, you can delete your Instagram account.
Additional Information About Unlinking Linked Accounts
Here is some additional information about unlinking linked accounts:
- You can only unlink one account at a time.
- Once you have unlinked an account, you will not be able to link it again.
- If you have forgotten the password for a linked account, you will not be able to unlink it.
Linked Account |
How to Unlink |
Facebook |
Go to your Facebook settings and click on “Apps.” Find Instagram in the list of apps and click on “Remove.” |
Twitter |
Go to your Twitter settings and click on “Apps.” Find Instagram in the list of apps and click on “Revoke access.” |
Google |
Go to your Google account settings and click on “Security.” Find Instagram in the list of connected apps and click on “Disconnect.” |
Preserving Content Before Deletion
Before permanently deleting your Instagram account, it is crucial to safeguard your content. Here are some options to preserve your memories and data:
1. Download Your Data
Instagram allows you to download a copy of your account data, including posts, stories, messages, and profile information. To do this, follow these steps:
- Go to your Instagram profile.
- Select the “Settings” icon.
- Scroll down and tap “Privacy and Security.”
- Click “Request Download” under “Account Data Download.”
- Enter your email address and wait for Instagram to send you a link to download your data.
2. Create a Private Account
If you’re not ready to delete your account but want to keep your content private, you can make your account private. This will prevent non-followers from viewing or interacting with your posts. To make your account private:
- Go to your Instagram profile.
- Select the “Settings” icon.
- Toggle the “Private Account” switch to “On.”
3. Deactivate Your Account
Deactivating your account temporarily removes it from Instagram without permanently deleting your content. To deactivate your account:
- Go to your Instagram profile.
- Select the “Settings” icon.
- Under “Your Account,” tap “Deactivate Account.”
- Follow the on-screen instructions to confirm deactivation.
4. Use a Third-Party App
There are several third-party apps and services that allow you to download and save your Instagram content. Some popular options include:
App |
Features |
4K Stogram |
Download high-quality photos and videos |
Instarchive |
Archive your entire Instagram account |
Backup & Restore for Instagram |
Restore your Instagram data in case of account deletion |
5. Save As Draft
If you have important posts or stories that you want to keep but don’t want to share, you can save them as drafts. This will allow you to access them later without posting them publicly. To save a post as a draft:
- Create a new post and add your content.
- Instead of hitting “Share,” tap the arrow in the top-right corner and select “Save Draft.”
6. Tag Yourself
Tagging yourself in your own posts and stories creates a backup that can be accessed through your profile’s “Tagged” section.
7. Send Yourself a Direct Message
Send copies of your important posts and stories to yourself in direct messages. This creates a private repository of your content.
8. Use Google My Activity
If you have linked your Instagram account to your Google account, your activities, including Instagram interactions, may be backed up in your Google My Activity.
9. Save Post Links
For posts that you particularly value, copy their shareable links and save them in a text document or spreadsheet. This will allow you to access the posts even after you delete your account.
Understanding the Consequences of Deletion
Before you attempt to delete your Instagram account without a password, it’s crucial to be fully aware of the potential consequences:
-
Loss of Content: All your posts, stories, reels, and IGTV videos will be permanently deleted and unrecoverable.
-
Unavailable Username: Your Instagram username will become available for others to use after deletion.
-
Deactivation of Linked Accounts: Any accounts linked to your Instagram, such as Facebook or Twitter, will be temporarily disabled.
-
Limited Functionality: You won’t be able to access Instagram features like Direct Messaging, notifications, or saved content.
-
Delay in Data Deletion: Instagram may take up to 30 days to delete your account and all associated data.
-
Recovery Difficulties: Recovering a deleted Instagram account without a password can be extremely challenging.
-
Content Archive: Instagram will send you an archive of your content within 14 days of deletion. However, it’s not a full backup and may not include all your data.
-
Business Impact: If you use Instagram for business, deleting your account will terminate your business presence on the platform.
-
Missed Opportunities: You’ll miss out on any opportunities to reconnect with followers, promote your content, or build your brand on Instagram.
-
Emotional Distress: For some individuals, the loss of their Instagram account can cause significant emotional distress and anxiety related to their identity and social connections. It’s advisable to consider these consequences carefully before proceeding with the deletion process.
How to Delete an Instagram Account Without a Password
If you need to delete your Instagram account but have forgotten your password, there are several ways you can achieve this. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
-
Use your email or phone number: Go to the Instagram login page and click on “Forgot password.” Enter your email address or phone number associated with your account and follow the instructions to reset your password. Once you have access to your account, you can delete it by going to your profile and selecting “Settings” > “Account” > “Delete Account.”
-
Contact Instagram support: If you cannot access your email or phone number associated with your account, you can contact Instagram support to request deletion. Visit the Instagram Help Center, click on “Help” in the bottom right corner, and follow the prompts to submit a support request. In your request, explain that you have forgotten your password and need help deleting your account. Provide as much information as possible, such as your username, email address (if known), and a brief explanation of why you want to delete your account.
People Also Ask
How long does it take to delete an Instagram account without a password?
If you use the email or phone number method, your account will be deleted immediately after you confirm your deletion request. If you contact Instagram support, the process may take longer depending on their response time and whether they require additional verification.
Can I recover an Instagram account after deleting it without a password?
Once you delete your Instagram account, it cannot be recovered. Make sure you are certain you want to delete your account before proceeding.
What happens to my photos and videos when I delete my Instagram account?
All of your photos, videos, and other content will be permanently deleted when you delete your Instagram account. If you want to keep your content, you should download it beforehand.