Instagram removes end-to-end encryption for private chats

This comes after Meta Inc, the owner of Instagram and Facebook, discontinued its end-to-end encryption services for Instagram private chats as of May 8, 2026.

“End-to-end encrypted messaging on Instagram is no longer supported as of 8 May 2026,” read part of the statement on Instagram’s help page.

End-to-end encryption is a secure form of online messaging that allows only senders and recipients to view their messages without third-party interference.

Earlier on, a spokesperson for Meta, who spoke to The Guardian, said that few people opted for the service as it was not automatic as in WhatsApp.

“Very few people were opting in to end-to-end encrypted messaging in DMs, so we’re removing this option from Instagram in the coming months.”

According to the company, users with messages affected by this change should download them and those with older versions of Instagram should update their apps before downloading their chats.

Over the past years, several law enforcement agencies and child safety organizations have differed with the companies' stand to encrypt messages, claiming they weakened their ability to protect children online.

By doing this, Meta, through its platform Instagram, will be able to access people’s chats, pictures, videos and voice notes, raising privacy concerns.

End-to-end encryption for WhatsApp and Facebook, however, remains in effect.