Instagram, one of the most popular social media platforms worldwide, provides users with the ability to deactivate or permanently delete their accounts. However, many users have encountered a frustrating technical issue: when trying to delete their Instagram account, they’re met with a “password error” — even when they’re certain the password entered is correct. This bug is not just annoying; for users seeking to remove their digital footprint, it can feel deeply intrusive and disempowering.
TL;DR
If you are encountering a “password error” while trying to delete your Instagram account even after entering the correct password, you’re not alone. This issue may be linked to cached data, autofill problems, login session timeouts, or synchronization errors between devices. A careful combination of troubleshooting steps such as clearing browser cache, resetting your password, or using a private browsing mode can often help. In severe cases, contacting Instagram’s support team may be necessary to resolve the glitch.
Understanding the Instagram Account Deletion Process
Before diving into solutions, it’s helpful to understand how Instagram’s account deletion process works. To permanently delete your account, you typically need to:
- Visit the official Instagram Account Deletion Page.
- Log in, if prompted.
- Select a reason for deletion.
- Enter your password to confirm your choice.
However, in many cases, the final step — entering your password — leads to an error message stating, “The password you entered is incorrect.” This occurs even when the password is correct and has been recently used to log in successfully. So, what’s going on?
Common Causes of the Password Error
Several underlying factors could be contributing to the problem:
- 1. Browser Cache and Autofill Conflicts: Saved login credentials and autofill data can override your current password entry, causing a mismatch.
- 2. Session Expiration: If your session has timed out or the login token has expired, Instagram may not validate your password properly.
- 3. Platform Transition Issues: Switching between app and browser-based accesses might introduce sync problems.
- 4. Backend Glitches: Instagram occasionally experiences updates or bugs that disrupt account settings and authentication mechanisms.
Understanding these can provide insight into how to solve the issue efficiently.
Step-by-Step Solutions to Fix the Instagram Password Error
Here are a series of proven steps that have helped affected users bypass the password glitch and successfully delete their accounts.
1. Clear Browser Cache and Cookies
Your browser might be holding onto outdated authentication data. To address this:
- Open your browser settings.
- Clear browsing history, cookies, and cached files.
- Close and reopen the browser before accessing the Instagram deletion page again.
This ensures no conflicting saved data interferes with your session.
2. Disable Autofill and Manual Entry
Browser autofill can inadvertently input an older or mistaken password.
- Try turning off password autofill settings in your browser preferences.
- Type in the correct password manually rather than relying on prefilled boxes.
Note: Be sure you’re not accidentally copying and pasting trailing spaces or invisible characters.
3. Use Incognito or Private Browsing Mode
This method bypasses stored login sessions and forces a fresh connection to Instagram’s servers.
- Open a new private/incognito window in your browser.
- Navigate directly to the account deletion page.
- Log in and go through the deletion process again.
This can often resolve session-related authentication failures that regular browsing won’t fix.
4. Reset Your Instagram Password
If cache clearing and private browsing don’t work, reset your Instagram password manually:
- Go to the Password Reset Page.
- Follow the steps to set a new, secure password.
- After successfully changing your password, use that new password on the deletion page.
This confirms your ownership and overrides any background disputes in session tokens.
5. Try Another Device or Network
Sometimes the problem could lie with your device’s cache or even a particular internet connection.
- Use a different device (e.g., switch from PC to mobile or vice versa).
- Try deleting over a different network connection (e.g., mobile data vs Wi-Fi).
A fresh environment often resets any conflicting cookies or domain-specific cache issues that might affect login calls.
6. Don’t Use the App for Deletion
Instagram’s mobile app doesn’t allow for full account deletion — it can only be done via a browser. If you’ve attempted deletion through the app and faced issues, make sure you’re using a web browser instead for a complete attempt.
7. Use a Reliable Browser
Some users report issues specifically when using outdated or less compatible browsers.
- Ensure your browser is up-to-date.
- Consider switching to a mainstream browser like Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge to see improved stability and fewer form submission problems.
8. Contact Instagram Support If All Else Fails
If none of the above techniques resolve your issue, it’s time to contact Instagram directly. Here’s how:
- Go to the Instagram Help Center: https://help.instagram.com/
- Search for issues related to “Account Settings” or “Delete Account.”
- Use the available contact forms to raise a ticket, providing screenshots if applicable.
In your message, clearly explain that you are receiving a password error despite entering the correct details. Provide your account username and any relevant info to speed up verification.
Precautionary Measures Before Deletion
If you’re eventually able to delete your account, remember to:
- Download Your Data: Use Instagram’s data download tool to retain a backup of your posts and activity.
- Remove Linked Accounts: Unlink Facebook or other social media accounts to prevent auto-login from conflicting services.
- Log Out on All Devices: Secure your exit by manually logging out from all devices before initiating deletion.
Why This Bug Matters More Than You Think
Instagram’s password error during deletion is not merely an inconvenience — it touches on broader digital rights and user agency. When users are unable to exercise their right to remove their data or control their online presence, it raises questions about platform transparency and accountability.
This glitch, though often fixable through various solutions as discussed above, can lead to user frustration, mistrust, and even extended exposure of sensitive or personal data. It underscores the importance of intuitive, error-free user control features in modern digital platforms.
Final Thoughts
Deleting an account should be a basic, accessible feature for any user on any platform. If Instagram throws a password error even when your credentials are correct, don’t panic. Start with browser and cache troubleshooting, proceed to password resets and different devices, and escalate to contacting Instagram support if needed.
By methodically working through these options, you can overcome this frustrating obstacle and regain control over your online identity and data privacy.