Facebook introduced end-to-end encryption for Messenger chats in 2016, providing users with enhanced privacy and security for their conversations. However, this encryption feature is opt-in and not enabled by default. If someone sends you an encrypted message on Facebook Messenger, you may see a lock icon next to their message. This indicates that the message is encrypted and can only be viewed by you and the sender.
What is end-to-end encryption on Facebook Messenger?
End-to-end encryption means that messages are encrypted on the sender’s device before being transmitted and can only be decrypted on the recipient’s device. The encryption keys are stored only on the users’ devices and not accessible to anyone else, including Facebook. This ensures that the messages remain private between the two conversing users.
When end-to-end encryption is enabled in Messenger, Facebook cannot access the content of your conversations. The messages are secured with locks and Facebook does not have the keys to unlock them. This prevents third parties like hackers from being able to access or read your private communications.
Why would someone send me an encrypted message on Messenger?
There are several reasons why someone may choose to send you an encrypted message on Messenger:
- Privacy – They want to ensure your conversation remains private and cannot be accessed by third parties.
- Sensitive information – They need to share sensitive personal or confidential information securely.
- Extra precaution – They want to take extra precautions for privacy even if the conversation isn’t highly sensitive.
- Habit – They have encryption enabled by default for all their Messenger chats.
End-to-end encryption provides assurance that your Messenger conversations cannot be compromised. Enabling this feature is recommended for users who regularly discuss sensitive topics over Messenger.
How do I view encrypted Messenger messages?
If you receive an encrypted message from someone, here are the steps to view it:
- Open the Messenger app on your smartphone or visit www.messenger.com on your desktop.
- Go into your message thread with the contact who sent the encrypted message.
- Tap on their message with the lock icon. You may need to tap twice.
- A full screen prompt will appear indicating the message is encrypted. Tap View.
- If prompted, enter your Messenger PIN or use your device biometrics (fingerprint/face ID) to decrypt the message.
- The encrypted message content will now be revealed to you. You can continue reading and replying within the encrypted chat.
The prompt screens may vary slightly depending on your device and software version. But the overall process remains the same – simply tap to view the encrypted content and authenticate if required.
Do I need to set up anything to view encrypted Messenger messages?
To view encrypted messages sent to you seamlessly, you need to have the following:
- The latest version of the Messenger app
- A Messenger PIN or device biometrics (fingerprint/face ID) enabled on the app
Here are detailed steps to set up each of these:
Update to the Latest Messenger Version
Facebook frequently releases new versions of Messenger with security updates and features. To ensure you are able to view encrypted chats, keep the app updated to the latest version.
- On your iOS device – Go to the App Store and check for Messenger updates
- On your Android device – Go to Google Play Store and check for Messenger updates
- On your desktop – Ensure you are using the latest version of your web browser
Set Up a Messenger PIN
The Messenger PIN provides an additional layer of security instead of just relying on your phone unlock credentials. Here are the steps to enable it:
- Open Messenger and tap your profile picture
- Go to Privacy and tap App Lock
- Turn on Require PIN and choose a 4-digit PIN
- You’ll need to enter this PIN to view encrypted chats
Use Your Device Biometrics
If your device has Touch ID (fingerprint) or Face ID capability, you can use it instead of a PIN to view encrypted Messenger content. Just enable the options in the Messenger Privacy settings.
What if I don’t have my PIN or device with me?
If you receive an encrypted Messenger message on one device but want to view it on another device where you don’t have your PIN or biometrics set up, there are a couple of options:
- Wait until you have access to your primary device to view the message.
- On the second device, reset your Messenger PIN through your Facebook password. You will then be able to set up a new PIN to view the message.
Avoid storing your Messenger PIN in an insecure way or sharing it with others, as this compromises the privacy of your encrypted chats.
Can I turn off Messenger encryption?
Yes, if you do not want to use encrypted Messenger chats, you can disable the “Secret Conversations” feature:
- Open your Messenger app and tap your profile picture
- Go to Privacy settings and tap Secret Conversations
- Toggle the feature off
This will prevent you from sending and receiving any end-to-end encrypted messages. All your Messenger chats will revert to normal unencrypted mode.
You can toggle this feature on again at any time to re-enable Messenger encryption. But existing conversations will not automatically become encrypted.
Key Takeaways
- End-to-end encryption provides an enhanced level of privacy and security for your Messenger conversations.
- Encrypted messages are denoted by a lock icon and require an extra step to view their content.
- Ensure your app is updated and you have a Messenger PIN/biometrics enabled to seamlessly view encrypted chats.
- You can disable encryption if you do not want to use this feature.
Facebook’s Messenger encryption is opt-in so people can choose when to enhance their chat privacy. If you see a lock icon in a Messenger conversation, follow the prompt to view the encrypted message content and continue the private chat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Facebook employees read my encrypted chats?
No, Facebook employees do not have access to your encrypted chat content. The messages are secured with end-to-end encryption, which means only you and the person you’re messaging can read them.
Do both people need to have encryption enabled?
No, only one person needs to enable encryption with “Secret Conversations” for a Messenger thread to be end-to-end encrypted. The other person will still be able to read and reply normally.
Is encryption available on group chats?
Currently, Facebook Messenger encryption is only available for one-on-one chats. Group chats do not support end-to-end encryption.
Can I use encryption on Messenger on my desktop?
Yes, encrypted secret conversations are available on both the Messenger mobile apps and Messenger desktop site. You can start encrypted chats from either platform.
Do media files also get encrypted?
Yes, any media like photos, videos and voice messages you send in an encrypted chat will be encrypted as well. All content you share is secured.
Conclusion
Facebook Messenger’s encrypted messaging capability provides an extra level of security and privacy for your online conversations. If you see a lock icon on a message, it means the sender has initiated a Secret Conversation and the content can only be viewed by you and them. Simply follow the prompts to unlock and read these encrypted chats. Enable Messenger encryption with your close contacts for assurance that your conversations will remain private.