65
There are various reasons why you might want to delete your Meta account. In this guide, you will learn everything you need to know about deleting your Meta account quickly and securely, including the steps involved and what you need to bear in mind.
Delete Meta account: How to prepare
Before you delete your Meta account, you should take a few steps to ensure a smooth transition.
- Make sure you have backed up all important data. This includes photos, videos, and messages you want to keep. Use Meta’s download feature to do this.
- Check your linked apps and services. Remember to set up alternative login methods if you have previously logged in via your Meta account.
- Inform your important contacts about the upcoming deletion, especially if they communicate with you regularly via Meta platforms. Make sure you have other ways to reach important contacts.
- Check if you have any ongoing subscriptions or payment agreements that are processed through your Meta account and adjust them accordingly.
Delete your Meta account: Step-by-step guide
The deletion process itself is relatively simple, but there are a few things to keep in mind.
- Log in to Facebook via a web browser (deletion does not always work in the app).
- Click on your profile picture in the top right corner.
- Select “Settings and privacy” ☻ “Settings”.
- Go to “Meta Account Overview” ☻ “Personal Information” ☻ “Account Ownership and Control.”
- Click on “Deactivate or Delete.”
- Select “Delete account” and follow the instructions, including entering your password.
- After confirmation, a 30-day period begins during which you can still reverse the deletion. After that, the account is permanently deleted.
- Important: Deletion also affects connected services (e.g., Messenger, Instagram, Threads when deleted via the Meta account). Threads is linked to Instagram and will be deleted along with it.
- Meta Quest account: For Meta Quest (VR), the account can also be deleted separately via the headset or account settings.
- These steps apply to most Meta services and should be carefully considered. Before deleting your account, consult the official Meta help pages on account deletion for specific instructions for each service.
What are the consequences of deleting your Meta account?
A Meta account is often linked to many other services. What does this mean if you want to delete your account?
- Deleting a Meta account means that you permanently lose access to the associated services and information. This includes all data stored on social networks such as Facebook or Instagram.
- It is important to note that once an account has been deleted, it cannot be restored. All posts, photos, messages, and other content will be irrevocably deleted.
- Also consider any impact on linked third-party apps. If these run through your Meta account, you may lose access to them.
- Another point to consider is communication. Think about whether contacts you mainly communicate with via these platforms can also be reached by other means.
These are the advantages and disadvantages of deleting your account
While it may make sense to delete a Meta account, there are also potential disadvantages that should be considered.
- A major advantage is that you gain more control over your personal data. By deleting your account, you reduce the amount of information Meta collects about you.
- You reduce your digital presence and may be able to minimize distractions from social media, which can lead to increased productivity.
- One disadvantage could be that you lose contact with certain people, especially if they mainly communicate via Meta services.
- In addition, it may be difficult to use certain features or services that require you to log in with a Meta account. Plan alternatives in advance.
