Meta has removed end-to-end encryption (E2E) from Instagram DMs as of May 8, 2026, citing low opt-in rates. The company says users who want E2E encryption can switch to WhatsApp, where it is enabled by default. The decision comes amid legal pressure, including a New Mexico jury verdict finding Meta liable for $375 million in civil penalties related to child safety concerns tied to encrypted messaging. TikTok has similarly declined to add E2E encryption to its DMs for comparable safety reasons.
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