Meta has confirmed that it will remove end-to-end encryption from Instagram Direct Messages (DMs), effective 8 May 2026. This includes chats and calls.
The question now is: will this change make messaging on the platform less safe and less private? And what should you do before the deadline?
But first, what’s end-to-end encryption?
End-to-end encryption is a privacy feature that assigns unique keys to a conversation on a platform like Instagram, ensuring that only the sender and the recipient can see or listen to the messages being exchanged. In other words, not even Meta can access the content.
With the removal of this feature, your Instagram chats will no longer have that layer of protection. In theory, Meta, and by extension, authorities, could gain access to message content if required to do so.
Why is Meta removing end-to-end encryption from Instagram DM?
According to a report from The Verge, Meta issued a statement that they are pulling the plug because because “very few people” use end-to-end encryption on Instagram DM.
However, many believe this move is likely driven by mounting pressure from governments worldwide demanding for better oversight on private chats for safety reasons, particularly to protect minors.
Here’s what you need to do to save your chats
First and foremost, if you are on an older version of Instagram, you will need to update your app first. Then, look out for an in-app prompt with instructions on how to download any media or messages from your affected chats that you want to keep.
