Karl Stefanovic confirms his Instagram was hacked, takes hiatus

Karl Stefanovic has spoken out after he says he was targeted by online hackers.

The former TODAY co-host shared a post on January 7 that revealed his Instagram account had been hacked.

"Whilst I was out fishing my Instagram account has been hacked," he began his post. "I am investigating this with the authorities and will be back soon. Karlos," he signed off.

A News.com.au report claimed Stefanovic's post came after his account liked a number of comments criticising the new TODAY line-up.

Over the weekend, Nine announced a new line-up which will feature female co-hosts Georgie Gardner and Deborah Knight, an Australian first for breakfast television. Meanwhile, Tom Steinfort will be stepping into 

Nine announced in December Stefanovic had stepped down from his co-host post after 14 years.

In a statement about the decision, Nine's Director of News and Current Affairs, Darren Wick, said, "Nine and Karl Stefanovic have agreed it is time for him to step off the TODAY show. Karl remains on contract with the network and will continue to host This Time Next Year, which records in February."