Instagram to remove end-to-end encryption messages support

Meta’s photo-sharing platform Instagram will stop supporting end-to-end encrypted messages starting May 8, according to an update on its support page. The change requires users who activated the feature to download their messages and media before the deadline if they wish to retain their content.

The encryption method protects all messages between two devices because only those devices can decrypt the content. The chat platform does not have any ability to view the chat contents. Instagram will protect messages through transmission security, but the platform will gain access to decrypted content once users remove the security feature.

Instagram users who need to use encrypted chats will obtain message and file download instructions before the feature ends.

Instagram existed without encrypted chat as its default setting. Users had to start a separate chat and manually enable the feature. Users on WhatsApp automatically receive end-to-end encryption for all their message exchanges, which works as the platform's standard security system.

Some users have already reported receiving notifications about the upcoming change. A user on Reddit shared that when they tried to download messages, they needed to know the encrypted chat feature would stop working after a certain date.

How to download Instagram chats?

The Instagram app and website both offer account data downloads for users who need to back up their encrypted messages, which will vanish with the upcoming feature removal.

1. To download your data, access your profile on the app, tap the three-line menu in the top right corner, and then choose the Settings and privacy option.
2. Scroll down to tap Accounts Centre and proceed to choose information and permissions. Select the option Download your information.
3. Choose the Instagram account which you want to download information from. Users can select between retrieving their messages alone or obtaining their complete account records.
4. Choose between two file formats, HTML and JSON, while selecting the desired download resolution for photos and videos.
5. Instagram will start downloading requested data after users confirm their request. The system will send the download link after your file has been prepared.