Deleted Instagram of the Authentication!

Hi, Mw1112v

Welcome to the Microsoft Community

Thanks for your feedback. I read your description of the issue.

I understand that this is frustrating for you, and there is usually a way to fix it, but you will need to go through Instagram's account recovery process. You can't simply "re-add" your old entry to the Authenticator app because the unique security link (key) was lost from your app when you deleted it. You will need to restore access to your account before you can set up two-factor authentication (2FA) again. I suggest you:

When you first set up two-factor authentication for Instagram (via the Authenticator app), Instagram strongly recommends and usually displays a set of one-time backup codes (usually 8 digits, with multiples). Did you save these backup codes at the time? If you did, you can:

After entering your username and password on the Instagram login page, when it asks for a code, look for an option that says "Try another method" or "Use a backup code." Click it, then enter an unused backup code that you have saved. If the backup code is valid, you will be able to log in successfully.

Or try another verification method. On the page that asks you to enter the verification code, click "Try another method."

See if there is an option to send a verification code to your linked phone number via SMS? Or are there other backup methods you have set up before?

If you can receive the verification code and log in via SMS or other methods, it is recommended to disable and re-enable 2FA in the authenticator app after logging in to get a new setup key.

If you cannot use the backup verification code when logging in and there is no other verification method, you need to start Instagram's account recovery process.

On the page that asks you to enter the verification code, continue to click "Try another method" or look for a link like "Get support" or "Can't access my verification code." Instagram will guide you through a series of steps to verify your identity.

Best regards

Brian - Microsoft Community Support Specialist

Use one of your multifactor authentication recovery codes to sign in to Instagram, then contact Instagram technical support. This is not a Microsoft issue.