Instagram is getting rid of end-to-end encrypted DMs that 'very few' people used

"Very few people were using E2EE in their DMs, according to Meta spokesperson Dina El-Kassaby Luce, explaining Instagram's decision to discontinue the feature. The platform is notifying impacted users and recommending they download their E2EE chats and images before May 8th. Anyone wanting encrypted messaging can use WhatsApp instead."

"Regulators globally have pressured social platforms to enhance child safety features, making E2EE a target. Nevada's Attorney General filed a motion to ban Meta from offering E2EE to minors, while New Mexico's AG accused the company of knowing E2EE would make platforms less safe by preventing detection and reporting of child sexual exploitation."

Instagram is removing end-to-end encryption (E2EE) from direct messages starting May 8th. Meta spokesperson Dina El-Kassaby Luce stated the feature is being discontinued because very few users utilized E2EE in their DMs. The platform is notifying affected users and recommending they download their E2EE chats and images before the feature ends. Users seeking encrypted messaging can use WhatsApp instead. This decision follows regulatory pressure from attorneys general in Nevada and New Mexico, who argue E2EE prevents detection of child sexual exploitation and compromises child safety on social platforms.

Read at The Verge