Instagram Is Making Messages More Secure, but It Could Cost You Your DMs

In a move that has left many users worried, Meta-owned social media platform Instagram has announced plans to enhance its security features in the Direct Messages section of its app. While this development is undoubtedly a step in the right direction for user privacy, it also comes with a catch – some old end-to-end encrypted chats may become unavailable after June 23, 2025.

A few hours ago, users noticed a banner in Instagram's Direct Messages section, warning that "some messages may be unavailable after June 23, 2025." This notification sparked concern among many, as they realize that this means that their memories attached to these messages may become lost forever. Fortunately, Instagram has clarified the situation and provided users with instructions on how to save any affected conversations before they disappear.

What's End-to-End Encryption and Why Does It Matter?

For those who may not be familiar, end-to-end encryption is a security feature that protects user data by ensuring that only the sender and recipient can read the messages. This means that even Meta, Instagram's parent company, cannot access or read these messages without the explicit consent of both parties. End-to-end encryption in Instagram Direct Messages isn't enabled by default, but users can start an encrypted chat by heading to their Direct Messages, opening a new conversation thread, and tapping on the recipient's name at the top of the message. To enable this feature, users must select "Privacy & Safety" and tap "Use end-to-end encryption."

While Instagram's decision to enhance security is commendable, it's puzzling that some older end-to-end encrypted chats will be removed. The company has been vague about its reasoning for this move, which has left many wondering if there are any specific issues with these old chats that need to be addressed.

Saving Your Affected Instagram Chats Before It’s Too Late

The good news is that users affected by this change can save their conversations before they disappear. Until the cutoff date of June 23, 2025, users can export any media or messages they'd like to keep. This process may require updating the app first, depending on the user's device version. To access the view chats page, users will notice a "View Chats" button in the banner notification and can tap it to see all their end-to-end encrypted chats that will be unavailable after the specified date.

Fortunately for many users, none of their chats have been affected by this change, which means no chats appeared on the view chats page. However, for those who are worried about losing their memories, Instagram has provided instructions on how to download any media or messages they may want to keep. By following these steps, users can ensure that their conversations are preserved and can continue to use them even after the cutoff date.

How Your Instagram Account Can Be Hacked and How to Stop It

While this change in security features is primarily focused on enhancing user safety, it's also essential for users to be aware of potential hacking methods. Here are some common ways hackers can gain access to an Instagram account:

• Phishing scams: Hackers may send fake emails or messages that appear to be from Instagram, asking users to reveal their login credentials.
• Weak passwords: Using easily guessable passwords or not changing them regularly can leave users vulnerable to hacking attempts.
• Two-factor authentication bypassing: If hackers have access to a user's first factor (username and password), they may try to bypass two-factor authentication using methods like SMS spoofing or one-time password phishing.

To protect your Instagram account from hacking, it's essential to take proactive steps:

• Use strong, unique passwords for all accounts, including Instagram.
• Enable two-factor authentication whenever possible.
• Be cautious of phishing scams and never reveal sensitive information.
• Regularly review your account activity and report any suspicious behavior to Instagram's support team.

In conclusion, while the change in security features by Instagram has raised concerns about losing old end-to-end encrypted chats, users can take steps to save their conversations before they disappear. By being aware of potential hacking methods and taking proactive measures to protect their accounts, users can ensure a safer experience on Instagram.