To delete your Facebook account permanently, you need to follow a series of specific steps. First, decide whether you want to permanently delete the account or try to recover it if you’ve deleted it accidentally. If you choose to delete, it’s recommended to back up your data—including photos, messages, and posts—by downloading it beforehand. You can do this via Facebook Settings & Privacy > Settings > Your Facebook Information > Download Your Information. Select the desired data range and format, then click “Create File.” Facebook will notify you when your data is ready for download.
To delete your Facebook account permanently, follow these steps:
- Click the arrow icon in the top-right corner of Facebook and select Settings & Privacy, then Settings.
- Navigate to Your Facebook Information and click Deactivation and Deletion.
- Choose Delete Account and click Continue to Account Deletion.
- Follow the prompts and confirm your decision. Facebook will schedule the deletion, which typically takes up to 30 days.
If you change your mind within the grace period—usually 30 days—you can log into your Facebook account with your email and password. You will see an option to cancel the deletion; clicking Cancel Deletion will restore your account.
If the grace period has passed and your account is permanently deleted, recovery is generally not possible. In cases where your account was hacked or mistakenly deleted, it’s advisable to contact Facebook Support immediately for assistance. Always ensure your login details are correct before attempting recovery, and be cautious of scams or phishing sites that promise account recovery for a fee. Download your data beforehand, as recovery post-deletion is nearly impossible once the grace period ends.
