How to Permanently Delete Your Facebook Account

If you’re one of the three billion people worldwide using Facebook, you might be contemplating leaving the platform for the sake of enhanced internet privacy. Deleting your Facebook account is a significant decision, and we’re here to guide you through the process step by step. In this tutorial, we’ll explore the differences between deleting and deactivating your account, provide detailed instructions for both, and offer insights into safeguarding your data. Let’s embark on this journey to regain control of your online privacy.

The Choice: Delete or Deactivate?

What’s the Difference?

Before we delve into the steps, it’s crucial to understand the distinction between deleting and deactivating your Facebook account.

Deleting Facebook

When you delete your account, there’s a grace period before it’s permanently erased. During this time, you cannot recover any data, including photos and pages you control. If your goal is minimal data retention by Facebook, deletion is the way to go.

Deactivating Facebook

If you’re looking for a temporary break, deactivating your account is the solution. This hides your account without deletion, allowing reactivation at any time. However, your account becomes invisible to other users during this period.

Deleting Your Facebook Account on Computer

Step-by-Step Guide

Go to Delete Account.
Select “Delete account.”
Click “Continue to Account Deletion.”
Enter your password and click “Continue.”

Congratulations! You’ve successfully deleted your Facebook account. Remember, if it’s within 30 days, you can cancel the deletion request by logging in. After this period, the deletion is irreversible.

Deleting Your Facebook Account on Mobile

Step-by-Step Guide

Open the Facebook app.
Tap the three-line symbol in the bottom right.
Navigate to “Settings & Privacy” > “Personal and Account Information” > “Account Ownership and Control.”
Tap “Deactivation and Deletion” > “Delete Account” > “Continue to Account Deletion.”

Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process on your phone.

Deactivating Your Facebook Account

On Computer

Go to Deactivate Account.
Select “Deactivate account.”
Click “Continue to account deactivation.”
Re-enter your password and follow the instructions.

On Mobile

Open the Facebook app.
Tap the three-line symbol.
Navigate to “Settings & Privacy” > “Settings” > “Account Ownership and Control.”
Tap “Deactivation and Deletion” > “Deactivate Account” > “Continue to Account Deactivation.”

Deleting Facebook Account Permanently without Waiting 30 Days

Unfortunately, it’s not possible. Facebook enforces a 30-day grace period for permanent deletion.

Saving Your Data before Deleting

Option 1: Transfer Photos

Transfer your photos to another service like Google Photos following the provided instructions.

Option 2: Download Facebook Data

Go to Download Your Information.
Select format, media quality, and date range.
Choose information types, then click “Request a download.”

After a few days, Facebook notifies you when your download is ready.

Deleting Facebook Account without Password

If you’ve forgotten your password, reset it on Facebook login using “Forgot password?” Once reset, log in and proceed to delete your account.

Deleting a Facebook Page

If you administer a Facebook Page, follow these steps:

Click “Pages” in the left menu.
Go to your Page, click the gear symbol, then “Page Settings.”
From “General,” click “Remove Page” > “Delete [Page name]” > “Delete Page” > “OK.”

Facebook’s Privacy Concerns

A Closer Look

Facebook’s business model relies on collecting user information for targeted ads. However, their track record on privacy is questionable, as evidenced by the documentary “The Social Dilemma.” Apple’s attempt to introduce “Privacy Labels” faced resistance from Facebook, highlighting their data collection practices and potential risks.

Information Collected by Facebook

Basic account information
Content-related data
Connection details
Payment information
Links and cookies

How Facebook Uses Your Information

Advertising
Sharing with third parties
Personalizing user experience

Limiting Facebook Tracking

Strategies to Minimize Tracking

Avoid Facebook and Instagram.
Turn off tracking of Off-Facebook Activity here.
Opt out of tracking in iPhone/iPad settings.
Use a privacy-focused browser like Firefox.
Employ ForestVPN’s Threat Manager to block data sharing with third parties.

FAQs:

1. What happens if my Facebook account is disabled?

Facebook may disable or delete inactive accounts after six months. Inactivity includes not logging in or using the account for other services. Accounts violating terms of service are disabled.

2. Can I use Messenger after deactivating my account?

Yes, you can continue using Messenger after deactivating, but not after deletion. Deactivating offers the option to send and receive Messenger chats.

3. Can people see my timeline or search for me after deactivation?

No, your timeline is not visible, and you’re unsearchable on Facebook after deactivation. However, sent messages might still be visible.

4. How can I restore a disabled Facebook account?

If your account is disabled, request a review by Facebook to potentially restore it.

5. Is ForestVPN a better choice for online privacy?

Absolutely! ForestVPN prioritizes user privacy by offering robust protection against tracking and data sharing. Visit ForestVPN to safeguard your online presence.

Hidemyass VPN

Hidemyass VPN, also known as HMA VPN, is a virtual private network service designed to provide users with online anonymity and security by masking their IP addresses. It allows users to access the internet securely by encrypting their internet connection and preventing third parties from tracking their online activities.

While Hidemyass VPN has been a popular choice for many users, we’d like to introduce you to an alternative that prioritizes user privacy and offers advanced features for a secure online experience—ForestVPN. ForestVPN not only ensures your online anonymity but also goes the extra mile in protecting your data from tracking and third-party sharing.

If you’re looking for a VPN service that values your privacy and provides robust security measures, we recommend checking out ForestVPN.