Meta has removed Instagram chat encryption; what should users be aware of?

Meta will stop supporting end-to-end encryption for Instagram chat from May 2026, raising concerns about user privacy.

Meta disables some chat security mechanisms on Instagram - Photo: REUTERS

For many years, end-to-end encryption has been considered one of the most important security layers for online messaging platforms. This mechanism ensures that the content of a conversation can only be read by the sender and recipient, limiting access from third parties.

However, Meta recently announced that the encrypted chat feature on Instagram will no longer be supported. This change is believed to be part of a process of adjusting how the company operates and controls content across its social media ecosystem.

How has Instagram changed its privacy policies?

End-to-End Encryption (E2EE) is an encryption mechanism that protects data throughout its transmission. When this feature is enabled, even the service provider platform finds it difficult to directly access the conversation content.

On Instagram, E2EE was previously not enabled by default for all users, but only applied to private conversations with encrypted chat enabled.

According to an update from Meta, the "end-to-end encrypted messaging" feature on Instagram will be discontinued after May 8, 2026. The company also recommends that users download data from encrypted conversations if they want to save the old content.

Meta stated that it continues to develop tools to protect users, detect spam, control infringing content, and enhance safety features on the platform.

What impact will this have on Instagram users?

For most average users, this change may not make a huge difference in their daily experience. Instagram is currently primarily used for quick chats, sharing photos, or social interaction, rather than exchanging highly confidential data.

However, the discontinuation of E2EE support means that chat data can be processed more efficiently by the system to serve content moderation tools, fraud detection, or support AI features on the platform.

This has also led many people to become more concerned about privacy issues when using social media applications to exchange personal information or work data.

Meanwhile, Meta still maintains E2EE as the default on WhatsApp. This shows the different directions between the platforms in the company's ecosystem, with WhatsApp continuing to focus on private messaging while Instagram is developing towards a social network that integrates AI and has stronger content control.

What should users be aware of?

Security experts advise that users should not view social media as a place to store or exchange highly sensitive data, regardless of whether the platform supports end-to-end encryption.

Users should also:

- Avoid sending sensitive information via social media chat.

- Enable two-factor authentication to protect your account.

Be cautious of suspicious links or messages that appear to be scams.

- Regularly check privacy settings and login devices.

SONG TRI

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/meta-bo-ma-hoa-chat-instagram-nguoi-dung-can-luu-y-gi-20260512154201953.htm