If you’re thinking about taking a break from social media, Facebook gives you the option to temporarily deactivate your account without deleting it entirely. This means your profile, photos, and posts become invisible — but you can still use Messenger if you choose.
In this step-by-step tutorial, I’ll walk you through how to deactivate your Facebook account using the Facebook mobile app.
✅ Want to permanently delete your account instead? Check out this tutorial.
🔹 Step 1: Open Facebook and Go to the Menu
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Launch the Facebook app on your phone.
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Tap the menu icon (bottom right corner).
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In the menu, look for the gear icon in the upper-right to open Settings & Privacy.
🔹 Step 2: Go to the Accounts Center
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Inside Settings, you’ll see something that says Accounts Center at the top.
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Tap the blue text that says “See more in Accounts Center.”
🔹 Step 3: Navigate to Account Settings
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Under Accounts Center, tap Personal Details (about halfway down the page).
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Then select Account Ownership and Control.
🔹 Step 4: Start the Deactivation Process
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Scroll down and choose Deactivation or Deletion.
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Select the Facebook profile you’d like to deactivate.
🔹 Step 5: Confirm Deactivation
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Tap the option to Deactivate Account (not delete).
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Tap Continue, and follow the on-screen prompts.
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You may be asked to enter your Facebook password for security.
🔹 What Happens When You Deactivate?
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Your profile, name, and photo will be hidden from most things you’ve shared.
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You can still use Messenger, so you can stay in touch with friends.
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Your account is only temporarily disabled — just log back in to reactivate.
🧠 Final Thoughts
Deactivating your Facebook account is a great way to take a breather without losing your content or connections permanently. Whether you’re unplugging for a digital detox or just need some space, this option gives you flexibility.
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