If you’ve decided to step away from Facebook permanently or temporarily, follow these steps to safeguard your data and ensure a smooth transition.

1. Deactivate Your Facebook Account Temporarily

• What happens?
• Your timeline, photos, and profile will be hidden.
• Friends can still see messages you’ve sent and your name in their friend list.
• How to deactivate (web browser):
• Go to Settings & Privacy > Settings.
• Click Your Facebook Information > Deactivation and Deletion.
• Select Deactivate Account and follow the prompts.
• Enter your password to confirm.

2. Download Your Data Before Deleting Permanently

• Why download? Once deleted, your photos, posts, and messages are gone forever.
• How to download:
• Go to Download Your Information.
• Select the data categories you want (e.g., posts, photos, messages).
• Facebook will email you a link to a. zip file containing your archive.

3. Create New Log-Ins for Linked Apps

• Check linked apps and sites:
• Visit the Apps and Websites section in Settings for a list of accounts tied to Facebook Login.
• Create new login credentials for these accounts to avoid losing access.
• Tip: Use a password manager to keep track of your new logins securely.

4. Delete Your Facebook Account Permanently

• Steps:
• Visit the Delete My Account page.
• Click Delete My Account and follow the prompts.
• Important:
• You have 30 days to change your mind. Log back in during this period to cancel the deletion.
• It may take up to 90 days to completely remove your data from Facebook’s backup systems.
• Some residual data, like messages sent to others, will remain visible.

5. Quit Facebook’s Entire Ecosystem

• Facebook also owns Instagram, WhatsApp, and other platforms. To fully disconnect:
• Follow deletion steps for Instagram and WhatsApp.

By following these steps, you can leave Facebook while protecting your data and maintaining access to other important accounts.

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