How can I delete my FB account in 2019?

Current Trends in Permanently Deleting Facebook Accounts

In recent years, there’s been a noticeable shift toward permanently deleting Facebook accounts, driven by privacy concerns and the increasing desire for digital detoxes. Many users now prefer complete account removal over temporary deactivation to better control their online footprint. Platforms are responding to this demand by updating their deletion procedures to make the process more straightforward and transparent.

According to Deleting Solutions, recent updates aim to simplify the deletion process and provide clearer guidance, emphasizing Facebook’s focus on user privacy. These enhancements help users understand exactly what to expect when they choose to delete their accounts and assist in making informed decisions.

However, there are concerns regarding data recovery post-deletion, especially related to associated services like Messenger, Instagram, or linked accounts. The deletion process can take from a few days up to several weeks, during which some data might still be recoverable or stored in backups and caches. As outlined by Deleting Solutions, it’s crucial to understand these timelines and take proactive steps to secure your data.

Expert Tip:

To ensure a complete and smooth account deletion, consider backing up your important information beforehand, disconnecting linked services, and verifying the removal through secondary accounts or recovery options. Staying informed about Facebook’s policies helps minimize the risk of unexpected data residuals (source: Deleting Solutions).

How to Temporarily Deactivate or Disable Your Facebook Account

If you’re not ready for full deletion, Facebook offers an option to temporarily deactivate your account. This allows you to step away from social media while keeping your data intact for future reactivation.

Log into Facebook: Open your browser or the mobile app and sign into your account.
Access Settings: Click on the downward arrow icon (desktop) or the three-line menu (mobile) to reveal options.
Navigate to Settings & Privacy: Select “Settings & Privacy,” then click or tap on “Settings.”
Open Your Facebook Information: Scroll down to “Your Facebook information.”
Choose Deactivation and Deletion: Click on this section.
Select Deactivate Account: Then press “Deactivate account” and proceed with “Continue to account deactivation.”
Verify Identity: Follow prompts to confirm your password and verify your identity if requested.
Finalize Deactivation: Confirm by clicking “Deactivate.”

Practical Tips for Temporary Deactivation:

Save important data or photos before deactivation.
Remember, deactivation is reversible—simply log back in to reactivate.
Update your contact info to make it easier to find or recover your account later.

For comprehensive guidance, visit Facebook’s official help page here.

Understanding Data Recovery and Post-Deletion Options

When you deactivate or delete your Facebook account, it’s important to be aware of recovery timelines and options:

If deactivation occurs, you generally have about 30 days to reactivate simply by logging back in. After this window, the account is scheduled for permanent deletion.
Once the account is deleted—transformation that usually takes about 30 days—the data is irretrievably removed. However, some in backups or caches may still temporarily retain fragments of your information.
Linked platforms like Instagram or Google have their specific policies and timelines. For example, Instagram may take several days for deletion, and recovery might involve identity verification (source).

It is highly recommended to act promptly if you wish to recover any stored data or regain access. Always review the specific platform’s policies, as outlined by Deleting Solutions.

Pre-Deletion Privacy and Data Backup Checklist

Before you proceed with permanently deleting your Facebook account, it’s wise to take the following precautionary steps to safeguard your digital privacy:

Download Your Data: Use Facebook’s “Download Your Information” feature to save posts, messages, photos, and other vital data ([Facebook Help](https://www.facebook.com/help/1757421581690107)).
Review and Revoke Access for Connected Apps: Check apps and services linked via Facebook and revoke permissions prior to deletion to prevent lingering data sharing ([Facebook Settings](https://www.facebook.com/settings?tab=applications)).
Clear Cookies and Cache: Remove any Facebook-related cookies and temp files in your browser to prevent residual tracking or data leaks post-deletion ([Cyber.gov.au](https://www.cyber.gov.au/acsc/view-all-content/publications/online-privacy)).
Consider Deactivation First: If unsure about permanent deletion, deactivate temporarily to test the impact and prepare backup copies.
Update Contact Info: Remove or change backup emails and phone numbers to prevent unauthorized reactivation during the grace period.
Unlink External Services: Disconnect linked apps and third-party services through your account settings to enhance privacy, such as email accounts or other social platforms.
Notify Your Contacts (Optional): Inform your network of the upcoming deletion if you wish to maintain communication channels outside Facebook.

Performing these steps ensures your privacy is preserved and your data is protected before taking the final step of deleting your Facebook profile. For detailed procedures, visit Facebook’s official guide on deleting your account.