Meta has decided to remove the end-to-end encryption feature on Instagram on a global scale. With this change, which took effect on May 8, 2026, a significant transformation in users’ direct messaging experience has begun. The decision has been interpreted as a step back from the privacy approach the company had emphasized in recent years.

Under the new system, Instagram messages will now be protected by standard encryption infrastructure. This model operates similarly to the structure used by some email services. This allows the platform to access message content when necessary. Text, images, videos, and voice messages are all included in this scope.

Meta has also introduced a data download option for users with encrypted chat histories. This aims to prevent media files and message records from old conversations from being lost. The update has reignited discussions about privacy and data access on social media platforms.