Change your Instagram password now

11comments
Change your Instagram password now
An updated entry made yesterday to a post on the Facebook blog (via TechCrunch) reveals that the company left millions of Instagram passwords in a "readable format." Originally, Facebook said that "tens of thousands" of Instagram customers were involved. Facebook says that normally its login systems are designed to "mask passwords using techniques that make them unreadable."

The good news is, if you believe Facebook, its investigation has shown that no one from inside or outside the company accessed these passwords. Of course, since Facebook updated its original blog post after one month increasing the number of passwords affected, who knows what they might say in another month?


Last month, Facebook admitted that it stored hundreds of millions of passwords in plain text dating back to 2012. At the time, it was estimated that 200 million to 600 million accounts had their passwords exposed to as many as 20,000 Facebook employees.

Facebook purchased Instagram for approximately $1 billion back in 2012. The company suggests that subscribers to Facebook, Instagram or WhatsApp use two-factor authentication when signing in. Besides entering a password, a code is sent to the subscriber's smartphone that is also required for a successful login. To set this up, go to the settings menu from your Facebook app and click on "Security and Login."
Can’t get enough of mobile tech?
Subscribe to access new exclusive content and perks.
You can still enjoy the standard PhoneArena experience for free.
  • In-depth reviews, tests & analyses
  • Expert opinions on the latest trends
  • Live community events and games
  • Ad-free browsing, discounts and more
Start Free Trial See the latest subscriber-only articles

Recommended Stories

Loading Comments...
FCC OKs Cingular\'s purchase of AT&T Wireless