Major Instagram Accounts Hacked via Meta AI Vulnerability.

A new cybersecurity incident has reportedly exposed a critical vulnerability in Meta’s AI support system, allowing hackers to take control of several high-profile Instagram accounts.

According to security researchers, including ZachXBT and Dark Web Informer, the attackers did not rely on traditional phishing or malware techniques. Instead, they exploited Meta’s AI-powered support assistant to bypass account recovery protections.

The breach is said to have affected several notable accounts, including the White House Instagram account used during Barack Obama’s presidency, the official Sephora brand account, and an account linked to a U.S. Space Force official. While the exact number of compromised accounts has not been confirmed, multiple users across platforms such as Reddit, X, and Telegram have reported similar incidents.

Reports indicate that the attackers used VPN services to mimic the target’s region and initiated password recovery through the “Forgot Password” option. They then manipulated the AI chatbot into associating a new email address with the account. This allowed verification codes to be redirected to attacker-controlled email addresses, enabling them to reset passwords and take over the accounts.

Meta has stated that the issue has now been fixed and that additional security measures are being implemented to protect affected users. However, some users claim they are still facing difficulties in regaining access to their accounts even after the patch.

The incident has raised serious concerns about the security of AI-driven support systems and the effectiveness of two-factor authentication (2FA) in preventing sophisticated account takeover attacks. Cybersecurity experts are calling for stronger safeguards as AI tools become more integrated into user account management systems.

Can Dumbphones Replace Smartphones Again?

A growing digital detox movement is encouraging people to abandon smartphones and return to simplified “dumbphones” in search of better mental health and improved focus.

The experiment, called Month Offline (MO), challenged participants in New York to spend an entire month without smartphones. Instead, they used upgraded flip phones created by dumb.co that still support essential services like WhatsApp, Google Maps, Uber, and two-factor authentication apps.

Participants joined the program hoping to reduce screen addiction and reclaim time lost to endless scrolling. Many also wanted to disconnect from social media pressure and constant digital distractions.

Unlike traditional flip phones from the past, these modern dumbphones combine minimal technology with practical everyday tools. Organisers say the goal is not to eliminate technology completely, but to remove unnecessary digital overload.

Danny Hogenkamp says the company developed the idea after noticing how device-free meetings improved creativity and productivity in his workplace following the Covid-19 pandemic.

The movement reflects a wider trend toward “digital minimalism,” where users intentionally reduce smartphone use to improve sleep, concentration, and emotional wellbeing. Studies increasingly connect lower screen time with better quality of life for both adults and children.

Critics question whether companies promoting “offline lifestyles” while selling modified devices truly support complete disconnection. However, supporters argue that balanced technology use is more realistic than fully abandoning digital tools in modern society.

As smartphone fatigue grows worldwide, the dumbphone movement continues gaining attention among younger users seeking healthier relationships with technology.

5 Simple Ways to Overcome Mobile Phone Addiction

In today’s digital world, many people spend a significant amount of time on their smartphones every day. Excessive mobile phone usage can negatively affect work performance, personal relationships, sleep quality, and overall mental health. Experts recommend several simple methods to reduce mobile addiction and create healthier digital habits.

The first step is to monitor screen time regularly. Understanding how many hours are spent on mobile devices each day helps users identify unhealthy patterns and set realistic goals to reduce usage gradually.

The second recommendation is to limit unnecessary notifications. Constant alerts from apps often encourage people to check their phones repeatedly. Disabling non-essential notifications can significantly reduce distractions and improve focus.

Another effective strategy is creating phone-free periods during the day. Experts advise avoiding smartphone use during meals, family time, and before bedtime. Maintaining device-free moments can improve communication, sleep quality, and emotional wellbeing.

Reducing time spent on social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok is also considered important. Setting daily time limits for these apps can help users avoid endless scrolling habits.

Finally, choosing alternative activities can make a major difference. Reading books, exercising, spending time outdoors, and having direct conversations with friends and family can naturally reduce dependency on smartphones.

Experts say that small lifestyle changes practiced consistently can help people regain control over their digital habits and maintain a healthier balance between online and offline life.

Instagram Launches “Instants” for Real-Time Sharing.

The global social media giant Instagram has officially introduced a new feature called “Instants”, aiming to enhance real-time sharing among users. The new feature is designed to allow people to instantly share moments with friends in a faster and more simplified way compared to existing tools like Stories.

According to Instagram’s official blog announcement, Instants enables users to capture and share photos and videos immediately. These shared moments will be visible for 24 hours, similar to Stories, but with a more streamlined and instant sharing experience. Users can simply open the camera, take a photo or video, and share it without additional steps.

Instagram explained that the goal of Instants is to bring users closer to real-time interaction. The platform stated that this feature encourages more natural and spontaneous sharing between friends, making social media communication feel more authentic and less edited.

The feature is currently being tested in selected countries as part of a limited rollout. Early testing allows Instagram to refine the user experience before a global release. The company has confirmed that Instants will be introduced worldwide in the near future after successful testing.

As competition increases among social media platforms, Instagram continues to innovate under its parent company Meta Platforms, focusing on improving user engagement and real-time communication features.