You can disable Messenger through your Facebook account settings on your phone by deactivating your Facebook account. Disabling your Facebook account also disables Messenger.
Here's a step-by-step guide:
- Open the Messenger app on your phone (Android or iOS).
- Tap your profile picture. (Located usually in the top left corner).
- Scroll down and tap "Accounts Center". You may need to tap "See more in Accounts Center" if you don't see it directly.
- Tap "Personal details".
- Tap "Account ownership and control".
- Tap "Deactivation or deletion" and select the account you want to deactivate.
- Tap "Continue to Facebook account deactivation". (This action deactivates both your Facebook and Messenger accounts.)
Important Considerations:
- Deactivation vs. Deletion: This process deactivates your account, meaning it's temporarily disabled. Your profile will be hidden, and people won't be able to search for you. You can reactivate it later by logging back in. Be careful not to select the deletion option if you only intend to deactivate.
- Reactivation: If you reactivate your Facebook account, Messenger will also be reactivated.
- Alternative: Messenger Only Account? Messenger used to allow for accounts without a Facebook profile, but this functionality has largely been phased out. Now a facebook account is necessary to use messenger.
Summary:
Disabling Messenger directly requires deactivating your entire Facebook account through the Accounts Center settings within the Messenger app.
