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Facebook has been a staple for many people for nearly – checks notes – two decades at this point. But there are several reasons why you might finally be considering deleting your account. Whether you’re concerned about privacy, want to reduce time spent onsocial media, or simply no longer findFacebookuseful, deleting your account is a huge step toward adigital detox– one that comes with both benefits and consequences.
Before you go through with it, let’s go over whatdeleting Facebookmeans and how to do it on different devices.
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What happens when you delete your Facebook?
When you delete your Facebook account, it’s permanent. Most of your data – including your profile, photos, posts, and videos – will be permanently removed without the possibility of recovery. Some residual information, like messages sent to friends, will remain visible in their inboxes. You’ll also lose access to any apps or services you logged into using your Facebook account, such as Spotify or Pinterest, so you need to reset your login credentials with the various platforms to continue using them.
After you delete your Facebook account, you have up to 30 days to cancel the process. Once that period passes, the decision becomes irreversible, though Facebook said full data removal can potentially take up to 90 days.
Understood? Great. Now, here’s how to delete your Facebook for good.
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How to delete Facebook
You can delete Facebook from a computer or a phone. Both are easy and can be done in a matter of minutes.
Deleting Facebook on a computer
Deleting Facebook on a phone
To delete your account from an iPhone:
To delete your account from an Android phone:
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What’s the difference between deleting and deactivating Facebook?
As mentioned above, deleting your Facebook permanently removes your account and all associated data. Once deleted, it cannot be undone after 30 days. Deactivating, however, temporarily disables your account. Your profile won’t be visible, but your data remains intact, and you can reactivate your account anytime. You should deactivate your Facebook if you think you might regret deleting your account down the line.
If you’re still confused about the difference and the implications of either, check outFacebook’s support hubfor more information.
Can you cancel your account deletion?
Yes. You can cancel the process within 30 days simply by logging back into your account and selecting Cancel Deletion. After 30 days, the deletion becomes irreversible, so mark your calendars and verify it’s something you absolutely want before the deadline arrives.
How to deactivate your Facebook
Got cold feet about deleting? No worries, I got you. To deactivate your Facebook account, go toSettings & Privacyin the Facebook app or website and then selectSettings. From there, go toAccounts CenterorYour Facebook Information, depending on your settings layout, and chooseDeactivation and Deletion. SelectDeactivate Account, follow the on-screen instructions, and confirm.
Once again – deactivation is temporary. You can reactivate your account anytime by logging back into Facebook.
