Instagram Will Soon Remove End-to-End Encryption From DMs

Many of us use Instagram to keep in touch with friends and family, and it’s a great app for chatting with them. Instagram has long supported end-to-end encryption for DMs. But it turns out that Meta-owned Instagram is finally pulling the plug on one of its most helpful features.

Meta is pulling the plug on end-to-end encryption in Instagram DMs

Meta has confirmed that it plans to remove end-to-end encryption for Instagram direct messages (DMs). The company has already started notifying users through in-app pop-ups. These messages warn them about the upcoming change and explain what to do if they want to save encrypted chats before the feature disappears, as spotted by 9to5Google. Once the deadline arrives, Instagram will no longer support encrypted messaging inside DMs.

So, what happens to existing Instagram encrypted chats?

Meta says users who currently have end-to-end encrypted conversations will receive instructions on how to download messages and media before the feature shuts down. Some users may also need to update the Instagram app before downloading those chats.

After May 8, 2026, end-to-end encrypted messaging on Instagram will stop working. Existing chats will no longer benefit from end-to-end encryption, and the option to enable it will disappear entirely.

Meta says you’re not using Instagram’s encrypted messages

According to Meta, the decision comes down to usage. The company says very few Instagram users actually enabled encrypted messaging. This made the feature difficult to justify maintaining. Instead, Meta suggests that people who want secure messaging should move those conversations to WhatsApp, where end-to-end encryption remains a core feature.

That recommendation highlights how Meta divides its messaging strategy across different apps. Instagram focuses on social interaction and casual conversations. Meanwhile, WhatsApp handles more private and secure messaging.