Instagram issues clarification after mass password reset emails amid data theft reports
Got an unwarranted password reset email from Instagram? You are not alone. The tech giant recently said it "fixed" an issue which allowed an external party to request reset emails for some users.This clarification from Instagram comes as Malwarebytes, a cybersecurity company, said that "cybercriminals stole sensitive information of 17.5 million Instagram accounts."On January 9, Malwarebytes reported that "stolen information" included usernames, physical addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, and more.Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels.However, Instagram has since then issued a clarification, confirming that user accounts are secure and there was "no breach of systems."The social media company apologised for the confusion, and advised users to ignore the emails. Random password reset emailsRandom password reset emails from Instagram are not unheard of, and the tech company has a guide on how to know if an email is authentic. A password reset email that you did not choose does not always mean that the account is hacked. Sometimes, it maybe due to another user mistyping their address. Fear not, only people who know your Instagram password or click the login link in this email can log in to your account.Firstly, official emails will only be sent from @mail.instagram.com. If users have additional security concerns, they can reset their password and enable two-factor authentication.This can be done by going to the password and security tab under accounts centre, and then choosing a preferred secure method of authentication.If the email came from an unknown address, chances are it is a phishing scam attempt; users should avoid clicking on links or downloading any attachments. UAE: Would you make your Facebook, Instagram accounts public for a US tourist visa?Instagram rolls out new location sharing, reels features; security concerns raised
Got an unwarranted password reset email from Instagram? You are not alone. The tech giant recently said it "fixed" an issue which allowed an external party to request reset emails for some users.
This clarification from Instagram comes as Malwarebytes, a cybersecurity company, said that "cybercriminals stole sensitive information of 17.5 million Instagram accounts."
On January 9, Malwarebytes reported that "stolen information" included usernames, physical addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, and more.
Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels.
However, Instagram has since then issued a clarification, confirming that user accounts are secure and there was "no breach of systems."
The social media company apologised for the confusion, and advised users to ignore the emails.
Random password reset emails
Random password reset emails from Instagram are not unheard of, and the tech company has a guide on how to know if an email is authentic. A password reset email that you did not choose does not always mean that the account is hacked.
Sometimes, it maybe due to another user mistyping their address. Fear not, only people who know your Instagram password or click the login link in this email can log in to your account.
Firstly, official emails will only be sent from @mail.instagram.com. If users have additional security concerns, they can reset their password and enable two-factor authentication.
This can be done by going to the password and security tab under accounts centre, and then choosing a preferred secure method of authentication.
If the email came from an unknown address, chances are it is a phishing scam attempt; users should avoid clicking on links or downloading any attachments.
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