"Very few people were opting in to end-to-end encrypted messaging in DMs, so we're removing this option from Instagram in the coming months. Anyone who wants to keep messaging with end-to-end encryption can easily do that on WhatsApp."
"Where end-to-end encryption is implemented without appropriate safety measures, it can increase safety risks and prevent the identification of harms such as child sexual exploitation, and terrorism and violent extremism."
"Meta had endured criticism from child safety groups and an alliance of law enforcement including the FBI, Interpol, the UK's National Crime Agency and the Australian federal police who argued it would weaken the ability to keep children safe online."
Meta announced that end-to-end encryption will be removed from Instagram direct messages starting May 8, 2026. The company cited low uptake as the reason, stating very few users opted into encrypted messaging. This reversal means Meta will gain access to all private messages between users, whereas previously only unencrypted messages were visible to the company. The feature is already deactivated for Australian users. Users preferring encrypted messaging can use WhatsApp instead. The decision follows years of pressure from law enforcement agencies and child safety groups who argued encryption hindered efforts to protect children online and prevent exploitation.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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