The number of fake accounts on social media is increasing. Direct messages (DM) are sent from these accounts to close people or friends.

Account impersonation by criminals is nothing new, and it can happen to anyone. It turns out that you have received a friend's DM (Direct Message) from Instagram, but do not recognize the account. This means, your friend has been impersonated by a criminal.

What should you do if your friend or someone else is being impersonated on Instagram? Instagram's rules say that only people who are victims of impersonation can report it. But a close friend or person can help him with some steps.

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In this case, contact the victim of impersonation by DM, e-mail or cellphone. As if he reported this on Instagram.

If the account being impersonated belongs to someone you represent (eg, your child), you can report it to Instagram authorities using this form.

If someone else has impersonated you on Instagram, you must report it from within the app or by visiting  this link.

Here are some steps you can take to stay safe from impersonation attacks:

* Turn on Two-Factor Authentication (TwoFACTORY) and use unique passwords or passphrases. In that case it will be relatively difficult for criminals to try to take over the account just by using 'forgotten password'.

* Make sure the e-mail and phone number used on Instagram are up-to-date or under your control.

* Avoid accepting friend requests from strangers just like in real life. Avoid revealing personal or sensitive information like your address or phone number on Instagram.

* Always be careful and manage your security settings with Instagram app security checkup.

* Tap the three-dash menu button in the upper-right corner of your Instagram profile, select Settings & Privacy Options, tap Accounts Center, tap Password & Security under Accounts Settings, tap Security Checkup under Security Checks, select Instagram Account And then follow the next instructions of Instagram.