Meta Denies Instagram Data Breach After Password Reset Emails Alarm Users
If you are an Instagram user, reset your password on Instagram andALSO SET UP TWO FACTOR AUTHENTICATION
January 12, 2026: Meta has denied reports of a data breach involving nearly 18 million Instagram users, saying the recent wave of password reset emails was caused by a technical bug triggered by an external party.
"We fixed an issue that let an external party request password reset emails for some people. There was no breach of our systems and your Instagram accounts are secure. You can ignore those emails — sorry for any confusion." - as said on Instagram's X handle.
In an official statement issued on Sunday, January 11, Meta clarified that its systems were not compromised and that Instagram accounts remain secure. According to the company, the issue allowed an external actor to trigger password reset emails for some users, creating panic about a possible breach.
We fixed an issue that let an external party request password reset emails for some people. There was no breach of our systems and your Instagram accounts are secure.
— Instagram (@instagram) January 11, 2026
You can ignore those emails — sorry for any confusion.
However, online security forums such as Malwarebytes and Cyberinsider have linked the incident to a possible API-related data leak reported in 2024, which allegedly exposed information of over 17 million Instagram users, according to media reports.
What Instagram Users Should Do
- Change your Instagram password immediately
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
- Ignore unsolicited password reset emails you did not request
The incident has renewed concerns over platform security and user data protection amid rising cyber threats.
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