How it works
A user can send disappearing messages on Messenger, meaning the messages are automatically not visible after 24 hours. Direct messages between individual users are end-to-end encrypted by default so that only the sender and receiver of the message can see it, no one in between (although Meta can see an encrypted written message (not audio or video) if the receiver reports it to them). Users can text chat with Meta AI, ask for information, search messages or create text or realistic images to share (and for 18+ accounts, Meta will use this conversation as well as public posts and comments to further train Meta AI, unless the user fills out a form to object).
A new user needs a Facebook account to sign up to Messenger (can be deactivated afterwards). Under 18 accounts have a default 13+ content setting, which limits opening unsuitable links in Facebook and chatting with accounts that mainly share age-inappropriate content. Meta is introducing adverts to Messenger. A user can remove adverts (and prevent their data being used for advertising) by paying a monthly fee via their Facebook account.
Parental controls or safety settings available
Parents can supervise children using the Supervision tool in Meta’s Family Center. With agreement from their child, they can use the tool to see:
• Time spent on the app and set time limits or breaks (e.g. overnight)
• A list of their child’s contacts (including AI chatbots) and which contacts they’ve blocked
• Which contacts their child has chatted with
• Whether their child blocks strangers from connecting with them or seeing their stories
• The broad topics their child discusses with the Meta AI chatbot
Users can also limit who can see when they’re online and they can mute notifications for a period of time. As Messenger requires a user to have a Facebook account to sign up, it’s important to check Facebook safety settings too.
