Meta is ending end-to-end encryption for Instagram direct messages starting May 8, 2026. They say almost no one used this privacy feature, so it’s going away.

The app will notify users to save their encrypted chats, photos, or files before they’re removed. You might need to update Instagram first if your version is old.

A Meta spokesperson told The Verge that very few people turned it on, making it not worth keeping. Encrypted messages stay private between just the two users—Meta can’t see them.

Instagram DM Encryption Ends May 2026: What to Know

This helps Meta check for bad content or help police when needed. TikTok skips encryption too for safety reasons. Child safety groups worry full encryption hides crimes. Switch to WhatsApp (also Meta) for locked chats by default. Facebook Messenger keeps the option. Instagram DMs return to regular secure chats after May.

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