Instagram, one of the most popular social networking platforms, prioritizes user security by requiring a phone number for account verification and two-factor authentication. If you recently updated your phone number, you must update it on Instagram to ensure uninterrupted access and security. This guide provides a detailed walkthrough on how to change your phone number on Instagram.
Why Update Your Phone Number on Instagram?
Your phone number plays a crucial role in securing your Instagram account. It allows for:
- Two-factor authentication: Adding an extra layer of security to protect your account from unauthorized access.
- Account recovery: Helping you regain access if you forget your password or lose access to your email.
- Contact syncing: Enabling you to connect with friends and family easily.
If your old number is no longer functional, updating it ensures that you don’t lose access to these critical features.
Steps to Change Your Phone Number on Instagram
Here’s a step-by-step guide to updating your phone number on Instagram:
1. Open Instagram
- Launch the Instagram app on your mobile device.
2. Log In
- Sign in using your current phone number, email address, or username along with your password.
3. Navigate to Your Profile
- Tap on your profile picture in the bottom-right corner to access your profile page.
4. Edit Profile
- Click the “Edit Profile” button to access account settings.
5. Access Personal Information Settings
- Scroll down and tap on “Personal Information Settings” under the profile options.
6. Update Contact Information
- In the “Contact Info” section, click to update your contact details.
7. Add New Phone Number
- Select “Add New Contact” and choose the “Add Mobile Number” option.
- Enter your new phone number. If you manage multiple accounts, select the account to associate with the new number.
8. Confirm the Update
- Click “Next” to finalize the process. Instagram will automatically replace the old number with the new one.
- Optionally, delete the old number manually in the Contact Information section.
Congratulations! You’ve successfully updated your phone number on Instagram.
Updating Two-Factor Authentication Phone Number
Two-factor authentication (2FA) enhances your account security by requiring a second verification step. If you’ve changed your phone number, follow these steps to update it for 2FA:
1. Access the Accounts Center
- Go to your Instagram profile, tap the three-line menu in the top-right corner, and select “Accounts Center.”
2. Navigate to Security Settings
- Under “Account Settings,” select “Password and Security.”
3. Update Two-Factor Authentication Settings
- Find “Two-Factor Authentication” in the “Login & Recovery” section.
4. Change Phone Number
- Under “How Do You Get Login Codes,” select either SMS or WhatsApp and click “Change Phone Number.”
- Enter your new number and tap “Next.”
5. Verify the Update
- Enter the confirmation code sent to your new number via SMS or WhatsApp, then click “Next” to complete the process.
Your two-factor authentication phone number is now updated, ensuring continued account security.
Conclusion
Keeping your phone number up-to-date on Instagram is essential for account security and seamless functionality. Whether you’re updating it for two-factor authentication or personal contact details, following these steps ensures a hassle-free experience. Stay proactive about account management to enjoy a secure and smooth Instagram journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use one phone number for multiple Instagram accounts?
Yes, Instagram allows a single phone number to be associated with multiple accounts, making it convenient for users managing more than one profile.
Is it possible to create an Instagram account without a phone number?
Yes, you can create an Instagram account using your email address or by linking it to your Facebook account.
Can I find my friends on Instagram using their phone numbers?
Yes, by syncing your mobile contact list with Instagram, you can discover friends who are already on the platform.
Are phone numbers visible to other Instagram users?
No, your phone number remains private and is not visible to other Instagram users unless they already have it saved in their contacts.
What happens to my old phone number after I update it?
When you add a new phone number, Instagram automatically removes the old one. You can manually delete it from the Contact Information page if necessary.