Leaving Facebook: A Comprehensive Guide to Data Download and Account Deletion

With billions of monthly users, Facebook remains a dominant social media platform. However, many users seek to delete their accounts for various reasons, from concerns about misinformation to simply wanting to disconnect. This guide provides a step-by-step process for downloading your data and permanently deleting your Facebook account, addressing both web browser and mobile app methods. Note that deleting your Facebook account also removes access to Messenger; other Meta apps require separate deletion.

Step 1: Downloading Your Facebook Data

Before deleting your account, consider downloading your data. This process allows you to retain copies of your posts, messages, photos, and other information. Facebook requires several days to prepare your data file, which will be sent to your registered email address. The download link is time-limited, so act quickly once you receive the notification.

Downloading from a Web Browser:

1. Access your Facebook profile and click your profile picture (top right). Select "Settings & Privacy," then "Settings." Navigate to "Your Facebook Information."
2. Locate "Download your information" and click "View." Customize your download preferences:
   • File format: Choose HTML (easier to view) or JSON (better for data transfer).
   • Media quality: Select High, Medium, or Low quality for photos and videos.
   • Date range: Choose "All time" or specify a custom range.
   • Data categories: Select the specific data you want to download (Messenger, posts, etc.).
3. Click "Request a download."

Downloading from the Facebook App:

1. Tap "Menu" (bottom right), then the cog icon (top right) to access "Settings & Privacy."
2. Tap "Your information," then "Download your information."
3. Select your preferred file format (HTML or JSON), media quality (High, Medium, or Low), and date range ("All of my data" or "Date range"). Choose the data categories you wish to save.
4. Tap "Create file."

Step 2: Deleting Your Facebook Account

Once your data is downloaded (or if you choose to skip this step), you can proceed with account deletion. The process is similar for both web and mobile.

1. Access Facebook settings:
   • Browser: Profile picture > Settings & Privacy > Settings.
   • App: Menu > Settings & Privacy.
2. Find "Meta Accounts Center" and select "See more in Accounts Center."
3. Choose "Personal details" then "Account ownership and control."
4. Select "Deactivation or deletion."
5. Choose your Facebook account and click "Delete account." This initiates a 30-day waiting period. You can cancel deletion within this time. After 30 days, the deletion is permanent. Consider deactivation as an alternative for temporary removal.
6. Follow the on-screen prompts, including password confirmation.

Step 3: Deleting Your Account Without a Password

If you've forgotten your password, try password recovery or reset. As a last resort, you can report your account as fake (though this requires access to another Facebook account or using Facebook's online form). Remember: Maliciously reporting accounts is unacceptable.

This updated guide provides a clear and comprehensive method for managing your Facebook data and account. Remember to back up your data before deletion and understand the implications of both deactivation and deletion.

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