11. When using the text message option, you will be asked to enter your mobile number and enter the 6-digit code sent to you (as shown below). And as soon as you hit’Next‘, that’s it, you’re all done!
(Image credit: Future)
12. Lastly, if neither the authentication app nor the text message options seem right for you, no need to worry. You can select additional options and enable either login request notifications or backup codes.
When selecting the latter, you will be presented with five backup codes. As we mentioned above, these codes can be used should you lose your phone or if you no longer have access to your phone number or the authentication app in order to get back into your Instagram account.
You can then either take a screenshot to capture the codes or get new codes if necessary. Store them somewhere safe (not in iCloud or on the top of your desk). If you lose access to your text messages or that phone number, these will be your only keys back into your account.
One thing to note, however, is that each code can only be used once. You can request new codes if you’re concerned that the existing ones have been acquired by someone else or if you’ve already used all of them.
And although you don’t need to use all three options, the entire process of setting up all three of themtook us less than 10 minutes overall. We recommend setting up all options since, after all, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
