Instagram to remove end-to-end encryption for messages

Instagram has announced that support for end-to-end encrypted messaging will terminate on 8 May, marking a significant shift in the platform’s privacy architecture.

According to an update on the service's support page, users who have manually activated this security feature must download their messages and media before the deadline to avoid permanent data loss.

End-to-end encryption ensures that only the participating devices can decrypt content, preventing the platform itself from viewing chat histories.

Once this feature is removed, Instagram will rely on transmission security; however, the platform will technically gain access to decrypted content stored on its servers.

Unlike WhatsApp, where encryption is a standard default, Instagram users previously had to enable the setting for individual conversations.

Notifications regarding the transition have already begun appearing for some account holders. To preserve encrypted records, the platform provides a data retrieval tool within the 'Accounts Centre' under 'Information and permissions'.

Users can choose to download their entire history or specifically target messages in either HTML or JSON formats. Following a request, the system prepares a comprehensive file and delivers a download link directly to the user.

How to download Instagram chats

The following steps allow users to back up their data before the feature removal:

• Access the profile menu and select 'Settings and privacy'.
• Navigate to 'Accounts Centre' and choose 'Your information and permissions'.
• Tap 'Download your information' and select the relevant Instagram account.
• Customise the download by choosing specific message data and preferred file formats.