(Web Desk) - Meta Platforms has reportedly discontinued end-to-end encryption support in direct messages on its photo-sharing platform Instagram, a move that has sparked concern and surprise among users.
The feature previously ensured that messages could only be read by the sender and the recipient, providing a high level of privacy and security.
With the removal of this feature, messages are no longer fully protected under end-to-end encryption, meaning service providers and Meta itself may have access to user communications under certain conditions.
Meta stated that the change came into effect recently, explaining that very few users were actively using the encryption feature, making its maintenance less practical.
A company spokesperson added that users who still want fully encrypted messaging can continue using WhatsApp, which remains fully protected with end-to-end encryption.
The decision has triggered discussion among privacy advocates, with many expressing concerns over digital security and user data protection on social media platforms.