Meta’s decision to revise its content moderation policies has sparked increased interest in deleting Facebook, Instagram, and Threads accounts. If you’re ready to part ways with these platforms, here’s a comprehensive guide on downloading your data and permanently deleting your accounts.
1. Downloading Your Facebook Archive
Before deleting your Facebook account, download your archive to preserve your personal information, including photos, messages, and ad history.
Steps to Download Your Facebook Archive:
- Click the down arrow under your profile picture in the top-right corner of the Facebook homepage.
- Navigate to Settings & Privacy > Settings.
- In the left column, click Your Information and select Download Your Information.
- You’ll be redirected to the Accounts Center. Click Continue.
- Under Download or Transfer Information, choose the Facebook profile and other linked accounts (e.g., Instagram) to include.
- Select the types of information to download (e.g., photos, messages) and click Next.
- Choose between downloading to a device or transferring to a destination.
- Follow the on-screen instructions and click Submit Request.
2. Deleting Your Facebook Account
Keep in mind:
- Facebook delays deletion for a few days, allowing you to cancel if you log back in.
- Some data, like messages sent to friends, remains accessible even after deletion.
Steps to Permanently Delete Facebook:
- Click your profile picture in the top-right corner and go to Settings & Privacy > Settings.
- Open the Accounts Center.
- Select Personal Details > Account Ownership and Control.
- Choose Deactivation or Deletion.
- Select the account and click Delete Account.
- Follow prompts to confirm the deletion.
3. Downloading Your Instagram Data
Steps to Download Instagram Data:
- Access the Accounts Center via Facebook or Instagram settings.
- Go to Your Information and Permissions > Download Your Information.
- Select the Instagram account and choose whether to download to a device or transfer the data.
- Set parameters for the download, including date range and media quality.
- Submit the request, and Instagram will notify you via email when your download is ready.
4. Deleting Your Instagram Account
Steps to Delete Instagram:
- Access the Accounts Ownership and Control Settings in the Accounts Center.
- Select Deactivation or Deletion.
- Choose the Instagram account and click Delete Account.
- Confirm the deletion.
5. Deleting Your Threads Profile
Threads is tied to Instagram, so deleting your Instagram account will automatically delete your Threads profile. However, you can delete Threads separately.
Steps to Delete Threads:
- Go to the Threads.net webpage on a computer.
- Click the two parallel lines at the bottom left and select Settings > Account.
- Choose Deactivate or Delete Profile.
- Click Delete Threads Profile and confirm the prompts.
Important Notes:
- Data Access: You can download data archives from each platform before deletion.
- Deletion Timeframe: Facebook and Threads account deletions take 30 days to process, while Instagram offers a short grace period.
- Reactivation: If you change your mind, you may reclaim your account (or username) within the deletion window.
By following these steps, you can take control of your digital presence and ensure your data is handled on your terms.
