Instagram will remove end-to-end encryption from direct messages on May 8, 2026. The opt-in encrypted DM feature was introduced in December 2023. Meta cited low adoption as the reason for the removal.
Meta cites low adoption for the change
After the removal, Meta will have the technical ability to read all Instagram DMs. Users can download their encrypted chats until the end of day on May 7, 2026. Meta is redirecting users who want encryption to WhatsApp.
Users can download encrypted chats until May 7
The removal comes 11 days before the Take It Down Act takes effect in the US on May 19, 2026. A Meta spokesperson told The Guardian in March that very few people were opting in to end-to-end encrypted messaging in DMs, so the company is removing the option.
It remains unclear whether Meta will use DM data for advertising or AI training. Meta has not confirmed plans to do so, but the technical capability will exist.
Discussion
0 comments
Log in to join the thread with a thoughtful take, question, or correction.