A user can send disappearing messages on Messenger, meaning the messages are automatically not visible after 24 hours. Messages can also be end-to-end encrypted so that only the sender and receiver of the message can see it, no one in between (although Facebook can see an encrypted message if a user reports it to them). Facebook is moving towards making all chats encrypted as standard.
A new user needs a Facebook account to sign up to Messenger. They can deactivate their Facebook account afterwards if preferred.
Messenger allows parents to supervise children via its Supervision tool. Using the tool parents can see how much time their child spends on the app, which contacts they chatted with, and who can message their child or see their stories. Messenger also features safety settings enabling users to limit who can send them a message or message request, who can see their stories and when they’re online. As Messenger requires a user to have a Facebook account, it’s important to check Facebook safety settings too.
