Ever felt the need to hit pause on your Facebook life? You’re not alone. Today, let’s walk through how to deactivate your Facebook account.

Why Deactivate Instead of Delete?

Deactivating is like taking a hiatus — your profile becomes temporarily hidden, but your data remains intact. On the other hand, deleting is a permanent step, wiping out your profile and all associated information. Deactivation allows you to step back without losing everything.

Can I Undo Account Deletion?

In short, no. Once you delete your Facebook account, it’s gone for good. However, with deactivation, you can easily reverse the process whenever you’re ready to jump back into the social media scene.

How to Deactivate/Delete on Windows Desktop OR Mac:

1. Log in to Facebook: Go to www.facebook.com and log in to your account.
2. Navigate to Settings: Click on the downward arrow at the top right corner, select “Settings & Privacy”, and then click on “Settings”.
3. Deactivate/Delete Your Account: In the left column, choose “Your Facebook Information”, and then click on “Deactivation and Deletion”.
   • Select “Deactivate Account” and follow the prompts to deactivate your account.
   • Want to say goodbye to Facebook permanently? Select “Delete Account” instead.

How to Deactivate/Delete on Mobile (iOS/Android):

1. Open the Facebook App: Launch the Facebook app on your mobile device.
2. Access Account Settings: Tap on the three horizontal lines in the bottom right (iOS) or the top right (Android), scroll down and select “Settings & Privacy”, then choose “Settings”.
3. Deactivate/Delete Your Account: Scroll down to “Your Facebook Information”, tap on “Account Ownership and Control”, and then select “Deactivation and Deletion”.
   • Tap “Deactivate Account” and follow the on-screen instructions to deactivate your account.
   • Getting rid of Facebook permanently? Choose “Delete Account” instead.

How to Manage Your Facebook Account in the Event of Death or Incapacitation

While it’s not a pleasant thought, it’s essential to consider the digital afterlife. Facebook provides an option for a legacy contact — someone who can manage your account in the event of your passing. You can set this up in your Facebook settings under “Memorialization Settings“.

Secure Your Privacy with ID Protection

In the age of digital connectivity, protecting your personal information is crucial. Trend Micro ID Protection offers a comprehensive solution to keep your sensitive data secure. With ID Protection you’ll enjoy features such as:

• Social Media Account Monitoring: Secure your social media accounts with this handy tool, from which you’ll receive personalized reports;
• Real-time Monitoring: Receive instant alerts if your personal information is detected on the dark web or suspicious websites.
• Secure Password Management: Easily generate and store strong, unique passwords for each of your online accounts.

Offering both free and paid services, ID Protection will ensure you have the best safeguards in place, with 24/7 support available to you through one of the world’s leading cybersecurity companies.

Why not give it a go today? As always, we hope this article has been an interesting and/or useful read. If so, please do SHARE it with family and friends to help keep the online community secure and informed — and consider leaving a like or comment below.