Delete messages in Facebook Messenger: this is how you do that

Have you sent a message in Facebook Messenger that you regret? You can now simply remove it. This is how the Messenger delete function works.

How to delete a Facebook Messenger message

Discovered earlier this year TechCrunch that Facebook Messenger had secretly deleted messages from CEO Mark Zuckerberg, which sparked a lot of commotion. But now users get the same power and can fix errors quickly.

From now on you can delete messages in Messenger after you have sent them. For example, if you send something to the wrong person, you can still delete messages ten minutes after they have been delivered.

It is therefore not possible to delete messages older than ten minutes. In addition, the recipient will be shown that a message has been deleted. This also happens if you delete something on WhatsApp, where it has been possible to withdraw apps for some time. The feature works in both private and group conversations.

To prevent bullies from covering their tracks, Facebook will then keep the deleted messages for a short period of time. When the recipient wants to report its contents, the bully does not just go free.

This is how you delete Messenger messages

Not only text messages, but also photos, videos and links can be removed. To withdraw a message after you have already sent it, follow the steps below.

1. Press and hold the message you want to delete;
2. Tap on ‘Delete’;
3. Then select the option ‘Delete for everyone’ and press ‘Delete’ again.

Since Facebook messages are only kept for a short time, it’s important to report people as soon as possible when they abuse the delete function to bully with impunity. Has someone deleted a message with offensive or offensive content? You can still report this as follows:

1. Press the other person’s name at the top of the conversation;
2. Scroll down and tap ‘Something is wrong’;
3. Then choose the category that best tells you what is wrong;
4. Press ‘Send feedback’.

Messenger continues to expand functionality

Thanks to the new function, a lot of uncomfortable conversations can possibly be avoided. The delete function is gradually being rolled out worldwide, and possibly expanded in the meantime.

For example, the company would be working on an additional function that allows you to give a message or message series an expiration date in advance. For example, messages will automatically remain visible to the other for a certain period of time.

Read more about Facebook Messenger

• Facebook wants Messenger as the default messaging app in iOS (9/25/2020)
• Securing Facebook messages with your fingerprint or facial scan: that’s how it works (7/23/2020)
• Facebook rolls out dark mode: that’s how you activate it (6/29/2020)
• Facebook is testing Messenger unlocking with Face ID and Touch ID (6/14/2020)
• Free video calling with 50 people: that’s how Messenger Rooms works (5/15/2020)