How to Delete a Facebook Account Permanently
Facebook has become an integral part of many people’s lives. However, due to privacy concerns, addiction, or personal preferences, you may decide to Delete your Facebook account permanently. If you are looking for a step-by-step guide to remove your Facebook account permanently, follow this detailed procedure to ensure that all your data is wiped from the platform.
Understanding the Difference Between Deactivation and Deletion
Before proceeding, it's crucial to understand the difference between deactivating and deleting a Facebook account:
Deactivating your account means that your profile disappears temporarily. You can reactivate it whenever you wish by simply logging in.
Deleting your account permanently removes all your data and cannot be undone.
If you are certain about deleting your account, follow the steps below carefully.
Steps to Delete Your Facebook Account Permanently
Step 1: Backup Your Facebook Data
Once your account is deleted, you cannot recover your photos, messages, or posts. Therefore, it’s advisable to download a copy of your Facebook data before proceeding.
Log in to your Facebook account.
Click on the profile picture in the top-right corner.
Go to Settings & Privacy > Click Settings.
You click See More in the account center, then select Information and Permissions.
You click on Download Your Information.
Choose your profile, then click the next button.
Tap Available information, then click Download to device.
Click Create File and wait for Facebook to compile your data.
Once the file is ready, download it to your device.
Step 2: Remove Third-Party App Access
Some third-party applications may still have access to your Facebook account even after deletion. It’s best to revoke these permissions:
Go to Settings & Privacy > Settings.
You scroll, then click on Apps and Websites.
Review the list of connected apps.
Click Remove next to each app to disconnect it from your Facebook account.
Step 3: Log Out from All Devices
Ensure that your Facebook account is logged out on all devices:
Go to Settings & Privacy > Security and Login.
Under Where You’re Logged In, review all active sessions.
Click Log Out of All Sessions.
Step 4: Initiate the Account Deletion Process
Log in to Facebook and go to profile.
Go to Settings & Privacy > Settings.
Click profile details, then click personal details.
You can see your details (contact info, birthday details, identity information, account ownership, and control).
You click Account ownership and control.
You click Deactivation or Deletion.
You select Deleting your account is permanent. Tap the continue button.
Tap continue, scrolling and continue.
Enter your password and click Continue.
Confirm by clicking Delete Account again.
Step 5: Wait for 30 Days for Permanent Deletion
Facebook offers a 30-day grace period, during which you can cancel the deletion if you change your mind.
If you log in within this period, you can cancel the deletion request.
After 30 days, all your data, including posts, messages, and media, will be permanently removed.
Additional Steps to Protect Your Privacy
Even after deleting your account, some data may still be stored on Facebook’s servers. Here are some additional steps to enhance privacy:
Clear Facebook Cache and Cookies
After deletion, clear Facebook-related cookies and cache on your browsers and devices:
On Google Chrome:
Go to Settings > Privacy and Security.
Click on Clear browsing data.
Select Cookies and cached files, then click Clear Data.
On Mobile Devices:
Go to Settings > Apps > Facebook.
Tap on Storage > Clear Cache and Data.
Check and Delete Old Facebook Backups
If you have synced Facebook data with Google Photos, iCloud, or other backup services, manually delete any stored Facebook-related data to ensure complete removal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Reactivate My Facebook Account After Deleting It?
No, once the 30-day grace period expires, reactivation is impossible. You will need to create a new account if you wish to return to Facebook.
2. Will My Messages Be Deleted Too?
Messages sent to other users remain visible in their inbox, even after your account is deleted. However, your name will no longer be associated with these messages.
3. What Happens to My Linked Instagram and Messenger Accounts?
If your Facebook is linked to Instagram or Messenger, you may also need to delete those accounts separately.
4. Can I Delete My Facebook Account Without a Password?
No, you must log in and enter your password to delete your account. If you have forgotten your password, use the Forgot Password option to reset it.
5. How Long Does Facebook Keep My Data After Deletion?
Facebook states that it permanently deletes your data after 90 days. However, some information may be stored for legal reasons.
Conclusion
If you have decided to delete your Facebook account permanently, follow these steps carefully to ensure that all your data is erased. Always back up your important files before proceeding. If you have any doubts, consider deactivating your account first to see if life without Facebook suits you.
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