On May 8, 2023, Instagram officially removed its optional end-to-end encryption feature for direct messages, reverting users to the standard messaging system. This change means that while messages remain encrypted during transmission, Meta Platforms, Inc. (the parent company of Instagram) can technically access the content of messages under certain conditions, such as legal requests or moderation needs. The end-to-end encryption feature was introduced in late 2023 but saw low adoption rates, prompting the decision to discontinue it. Privacy experts suggest that users should be cautious with sensitive information shared via Instagram DMs, as the lack of end-to-end encryption means that chats may not have the highest level of protection. For those handling confidential information, it is advisable to switch to messaging apps like WhatsApp or Signal, which provide default end-to-end encryption. Users who previously enabled the encryption feature are encouraged to check for in-app notifications regarding its removal and to download any important content before transitioning to more secure messaging options.