Instagram will discontinue support for end-to-end encrypted messaging from May 8, 2026, the platform has confirmed, meaning users seeking enhanced privacy protection for their chats will have to rely on other services.
The photo and short-video sharing platform, owned by Meta, announced the change through a notice on its website and advised users to download any messages or media they wish to retain before the feature is withdrawn.
“End-to-end encrypted messaging on Instagram will no longer be supported after 8 May 2026. If you have chats that are affected by this change, you will see instructions on how you can download any media or messages that you may want to keep,” the notice said. It added that users running older versions of the application may need to update the app before they can download the affected chats.
End-to-end encryption protects messages by using a special key that prevents external parties from intercepting or reading the content of conversations.
While Instagram is phasing out the feature, Meta’s messaging platform WhatsApp continues to offer end-to-end encrypted communication.
Other services known for similar privacy protections include Signal and Telegram.
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