Yes, but it's complex: standard Messenger chats are now end-to-end encrypted (E2EE) by default, meaning only you and the recipient can read them, not even Meta. However, people can still see messages if you use non-E2EE chats (like old ones), report them to Meta, or if your device is compromised; "Secret Conversations" offer disappearing messages, but standard chats are secure.
Personal messages and calls on Messenger will be end-to-end encrypted by default. That means that messages and calls can only be seen or heard by you and the person you send them to, and no one else—not even Meta.
If your friend has seen your message, their profile picture (that looks like a small circle) appears below the message. This is for checking the read status for a message from your Facebook account on a computer.
Other userswere concerned that the Messenger app raised the question of invasion of privacy. Fretful users claim the app could give Facebook the use of their phones and tablets to take photos and to make phone calls without their specific approval.
End-to-end encrypted conversations: End-to-end encrypted conversations on Messenger are secure and only read by you and the other person. Learn how end-to-end encryption works on Messenger.
Someone might be reading your text messages from another phone right this instant. While it's unlikely, it is possible for someone with the right knowledge to intercept your messages and send them to another device.
Depends on your threat. I'd argue FB Messenger is more private (hear me out). SMS is an old and completely open communication method. Your provider can hand over, to LE or anyone else able to request it, exact messages, timestamps, cell towers used, to whom etc (I've seen this data first hand).
Hackers can access a Facebook Messenger account through phishing attacks, leaked account data, hidden malware on devices, or nasty social engineering tricks. According to the FBI's Internet Crime Report, phishing, spoofing, and personal data breaches were the most reported cybercrimes in 2024.
Facebook Messenger is a free instant messaging app that allows media sharing, group chats, and video calls. It allows international messaging without extra charges, unlike texting, which may incur additional fees.
: A blue circle means that your message is sending. : A blue circle with a check means that your message has been sent. : A filled-in blue circle with a check means that your message has been delivered. : A small version of someone's profile picture will appear below the message when they've seen it.
Messenger doesn't notify screenshots in normal chats, but it does when you use Secret Conversations, Disappearing Messages, or send View Once media. Facebook's main app doesn't notify screenshots at all. Understanding these privacy features helps you protect your information or be mindful of what others can do with it.
Here are three major signs that someone might be monitoring your messages—and what you can do about it.
Here are a few things you can do to keep your account secure.
A padlock icon is displayed next to the person's profile picture to tell you if a conversation is 'Secret'. You are still – like a normal Facebook message conversation – able to block and report users.
Check out the signs below to learn how to tell if a hacker has compromised your Facebook Messenger.
Control messages: Sometimes, hackers send specially crafted text messages or commands to exploit your phone's software vulnerabilities. These messages can contain malicious code that, when opened, gives the attacker control over your device.
Unrecognized texts or calls
Contact from unrecognized numbers could indicate you're the victim of a data breach. Don't answer calls from unrecognized numbers, unless you're expecting them or can verify their authenticity. A hacked iPhone or Android phone can send text messages to all its contacts.
Signal is a messaging app with privacy at its core. It is free and easy to use, with strong end-to-end encryption that keeps your communication completely private. Send texts, voice messages, photos, videos, GIFs, and files for free. Signal uses your phone's data connection, so you avoid SMS and MMS fees.
How Do They Work? Facebook Messenger scams occur when fraudsters use the Messenger app to con Facebook users into sending money or gift cards, giving up personal information that could lead to identity theft, or clicking on malicious links.
No, no one can see your secret conversations on Messenger. Secret conversations are end-to-end encrypted, so only you and the recipient can see the messages. Read more here.
Is it safe to send pictures through Facebook Messenger? Yes, sending pictures through Facebook Messenger in personal chats is generally safe since these are end-to-end encrypted.