Instagram or Facebook account hacked? What to do in India
Updated 2026-10 · General information, not legal advice.
Act in the first hour: secure what you still control, report to the platform, and report to the cyber crime portal. If someone is threatening you with private images, do not pay and get help.
When to use this
- You are locked out of your account
- Someone is posting or messaging as you
- A fake profile uses your name or photos
Step by step
- 1
Secure what you can
Change the password of your email and linked accounts, turn on two-step verification and log out other devices.
- 2
Use the platform's recovery and report tools
Use the account recovery option, and report the fake profile or the hacked account.
- 3
Warn your contacts
Tell friends and family not to send money or click links from the account.
- 4
Report on cybercrime.gov.in
File a complaint with screenshots and the profile link. If money was lost, also call 1930.
Key facts
- If someone threatens you with private images, do not pay; save the messages and report
- Women in distress: 181. Emergency: 112
- Never share OTPs or recovery codes
Get your free action plan
Tell us what happened. We show your options, draft the letters and track every deadline.
Common questions
Where do I report a fake profile?
To the platform first, then on cybercrime.gov.in with the profile link and screenshots.
What if someone is blackmailing me?
Do not pay. Save the messages, stop engaging, report to the platform and on cybercrime.gov.in, and call 112 if you feel unsafe.