Considering Breaking Up with Meta? Here’s How to Delete Your Accounts
If you’re feeling frustrated with Meta’s recent decision to remove its third-party fact-checking system and relax content moderation, you’re not alone. A growing number of users are turning to Google for guidance on how to delete their Facebook, Instagram, and Threads accounts. This surge in interest comes after accusations that Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg is prioritizing relationships with political figures over curbing misinformation and divisive speech. His comments about third-party fact checkers being “too politically biased” haven’t exactly calmed the storm.
So, if you’ve decided that you’re done with Meta’s platforms collecting your data or stirring up debate, here’s your guide to saying goodbye for good. Before you delete (not just deactivate) your Facebook account, make sure to download your personal information. This includes photos, chat history, IP addresses, and more. Remember, these steps require a computer and a web browser, not a mobile device.
- Facebook delays account deletion for several days after your request, so avoid logging back in during this period.
- Your messaging history might still be accessible to friends even after deletion.
When it comes to Instagram, there are two routes to download your data: through the Accounts Center or Instagram Settings. Both paths lead you to the ‘Download your information’ page where you can choose whether to download directly to a device or transfer it elsewhere.
“Once you’ve requested your data, you’ll receive a notification via email and the app when it’s ready for download.”
{Meta Information Center}
With your data safe and sound, you can proceed to permanently delete your account. If you ever change your mind, the same username might still be available for re-registration.
For Threads users, deleting the associated Instagram account will also erase your Threads profile. However, if you only wish to delete Threads, visit Threads.net on a computer and follow the necessary steps—it takes 30 days for the request to process.
