How to Deactivate Facebook Safely — Avoid These Common Mistakes! | bloghives

1. Introduction

Many people today are rethinking their social media habits. They may have concerns about privacy, want to reduce screen time, or simply need a break. Learning how to deactivate Facebook has become a useful skill. However, if you do it incorrectly, you could lose access to data, keep apps connected, or accidentally delete your account. This guide will show you how to deactivate Facebook safely and correctly.

2. Difference Between Deactivation and Deletion

Before taking any action, it’s important to understand the difference:

Deactivation

Your profile becomes invisible to others.

Your posts, photos, and comments are hidden, not removed.

You can reactivate your account anytime by logging in again.

Messenger may still stay active unless you turn it off separately.

Deletion

Your account is permanently removed after a 30-day grace period.

All photos, posts, messages, and friends are erased.

You cannot recover your data after the deletion window.

Since this guide focuses on deactivating Facebook , we’ll only cover the reversible option.

3. Steps to Deactivate Facebook Safely

Here are the updated steps for 2025 Facebook settings.

A. On Desktop (Computer/Laptop)

1. Go to facebook.com and log in.

2. Click your profile picture in the top-right corner.

3. Select Settings & privacy , then Settings .

4. On the left sidebar, choose Privacy , then Your Facebook Information .

5. Click Deactivation and Deletion .

6. Select Deactivate Account (NOT "Delete Account").

7. Click Continue to Account Deactivation .

8. Enter your password when asked.

9. Follow the on-screen instructions and confirm.

Your account becomes inactive immediately.

B. On Mobile (Facebook App)

1. Open the Facebook app.

2. Tap the menu icon (three lines).

3. Scroll down to Settings & Privacy , then Settings .

4. Under Account Center , tap Personal Details or Account Ownership and Control .

5. Select Deactivation or Deletion .

6. Choose your Facebook account.

7. Select Deactivate Account .

8. Enter your password and confirm.

Your profile is now hidden until you log in again.

4. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common errors to protect your privacy and data:

Mistake #1: Forgetting to Download Your Data

Before deactivating:

Go to Settings → Your Facebook Information .

Select Download Your Information .

Save photos, posts, and messages you want to keep.

This is essential if you ever decide to delete your account later.

Mistake #2: Leaving Connected Apps Active

Apps like Instagram, Spotify, or games may be linked to Facebook.

To fix this:

Go to Settings → Apps and Websites .

Remove apps you no longer use.

Switch logins to email or Google.

Mistake #3: Confusing Deactivation with Deletion

Make sure you choose Deactivate , not Delete .

Mistake #4: Thinking Messenger Automatically Deactivates

Messenger stays active unless you turn it off separately.

To deactivate Messenger:

Open Messenger app.

Tap your profile picture.

Go to Account Settings .

Select Deactivate Messenger .

Mistake #5: Not Updating Recovery Information

Ensure your email and phone number are up to date.If you forget your password later, you’ll need them to log in again.

5. How to Reactivate Your Account

Reactivation is simple:

Log into Facebook using your email/phone and password.

Your account is restored instantly.

If login fails:

Reset your password using your registered email or phone.

Complete identity verification if required.

6. Final Tips & Best Practices

Download your data before deactivation.

Remove unnecessary connected apps.

Turn off Messenger if you want a full break.

Save your login details securely.

By following these steps, you can take a safe, controlled break from Facebook without losing access to your account or data.