Addressing growing concerns online, Meta has denied reports suggesting that data linked to nearly 17 million Instagram accounts was exposed, stating that its systems were not breached and user accounts remain secure.
The clarification follows a rise in user reports of unexpected Instagram password reset emails. The issue gained traction after cybersecurity firm Malwarebytes claimed that data tied to about 17.5 million Instagram users was being sold on the dark web, allegedly including usernames, email addresses, phone numbers, and in some cases physical addresses.
In response, Meta said the incident was caused by an issue that allowed an external party to trigger password reset emails, without accessing user accounts or internal systems.
“We fixed an issue that allowed an external party to request password reset emails for some Instagram users. There was no breach of our systems, and people’s Instagram accounts remain secure,” a Meta spokesperson said. The company added that users who received such emails can safely ignore them and apologised for the confusion.
Malwarebytes has maintained that the data could be used for phishing or scam attempts. However, Meta has not confirmed any exposure of user information and said no sensitive data was accessed. So far, there is no independent verification that the alleged dataset originated from Instagram’s systems.
While Meta insists there is no breach, cybersecurity experts advise users to stay alert. Recommended steps include enabling 2-factor authentication, avoiding links in unsolicited emails, and reviewing account security settings. Changing passwords is also suggested as a precaution.
Meta said the issue has now been resolved and reiterated that Instagram accounts continue to remain secure.
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