In this photo illustration, the Instagram logo is seen displayed on a smartphone screen. (Photo Illustration by Thomas Fuller/SOPA Images/LightRocket via ) (SOPA Images via ) Meta is killing end-to-end encryption in Instagram DMs.

Instagram will stop supporting end-to-end encryption in May, and affected messages may need to be downloaded beforehand.

Instagram is preparing to discontinue end-to-end encrypted direct messages, marking a surprising shift in Meta’s messaging strategy after years of

Meta will be removing the end-to-end encryption for Instagram DM after May 8th, 2026, which allows the company to access user chats. The notice in the app also has informed users to download affected messages and media before change comes into action.

Instagram will end end-to-end encrypted DMs on May 8, 2026, allowing Meta to scan private messages and raising fresh privacy concerns.