So how do you deactivate or delete Facebook? First, you have to log in, then click on the downward arrow to the top-right of your screen. Deletion means all your messages will be irretrievably lost from your device (though not on the recipients' devices), and you'll need to create a new Messenger account using the above method. However, if you delete Facebook, your previous messages will read "Facebook User" and no one will be able to respond.ĭeactivation means messages will still exist alongside your contacts. When you deactivate Facebook, you'll also be asked if you want to continue using Messenger.

In a nutshell, deactivating Facebook still allows you time to think about whether you want to permanently delete your account (as your data is still stored, ready for reactivation). Before you begin the process, you need to know what it means when you deactivate your Facebook account. You might already have a Facebook account, but want to delete your Facebook while keeping Messenger.