Facebook does not have the best record of securing user data and handling users’ privacy. With often-occurring security breaches, especially after the Cambridge Analytica scandal, it is completely understandable why one would want to deactivate their proprietary messaging application.
Facebook Messenger cannot be named a private instant messaging app as it does not encrypt messages or your past converastionsby default. Having access to your camera, microphone, and contact list is just the cherry on top of this privacy-invading cake.
How to Deactivate Facebook Messenger?
First, you will have to understand that Facebook itself and Messenger are separate apps and thus have separate accounts for each, however, you can connect them together. In fact, you can create a Messenger account without having a Facebook account at all, simply by using your phone number and name.
If you have already linked your Facebook account to Messenger, you will have to deactivate it first before being able to deactivate the Messenger one. This will not, however, delete your chat history or any other info about you. It is not permanent and can be reversed (i.e. the account gets reactivated) by simply logging in to the account again.
Deactivating Messenger on Android
- Open Messenger and tap on your profile picture in the top left corner.
- Tap on Legal and Policies
- Tap on Deactivate Messenger *
- Confirm by tapping on Deactivate
* Please note that if your Messenger and Facebook accounts are linked, you will have to deactivate your Facebook account first. Only then will this option appear in the menu.
Deactivating Messenger on iOS
- Open Messenger and tap on your profile picture in the top left corner.
- Tap on Account Settings
- Under Your Facebook Information, tap Delete Your Account and Information
- Tap on Deactivate
- Type in your password and confirm by tapping on Submit
Unfortunately for both platforms, neither are permanent and could both be reactivated by simply logging in again with your username and password.
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