Turning off your active status on Facebook is a straightforward process that allows you to maintain your privacy by hiding your online presence. This means your friends and contacts won’t see the green dot indicating that you’re active. By following a few simple steps, you can turn off your active status on both the Facebook app and the desktop site.
How to Turn Off Active Status in Facebook
This section will walk you through the steps to turn off your active status on Facebook. Whether you’re using the app on your phone or the desktop version on your computer, these steps will help you achieve a more private online experience.
Step 1: Open the Facebook App or Website
The first step is to open Facebook on your device.
On a mobile device, tap the Facebook app icon. On a computer, go to www.facebook.com and log in if you’re not already signed in.
Step 2: Navigate to Settings
For the next step, you’ll need to access the settings.
On the app, tap the three horizontal lines (menu icon) on the bottom right (iOS) or top right (Android). On the desktop site, click the downward arrow on the top right corner of the screen.
Step 3: Select “Settings & Privacy”
Within the settings menu, look for the “Settings & Privacy” option.
Clicking or tapping on this option expands a list of more specific settings you can adjust.
Step 4: Choose “Active Status”
Next, find and select the “Active Status” option.
In the app, this option is under the “Privacy” section. On the desktop, it should be in the left-hand column under “Privacy.”
Step 5: Toggle Off Active Status
The final step involves toggling off the active status.
Switch the toggle to off to disable your active status. Confirm any prompts that ask if you’re sure you want to turn it off.
After you’ve completed these steps, your friends and contacts will no longer see when you’re online. This change will apply across all devices linked to your Facebook account.
Tips for Turning Off Active Status in Facebook
- Remember to Save Changes: Always confirm any prompts that ask you to save or confirm changes.
- Check All Devices: Make sure to turn off active status on all devices you use to access Facebook.
- Re-enable When Needed: You can re-enable your active status anytime by following the same steps and toggling the switch back on.
- Inform Close Contacts: Let close friends or family know you’ve turned off active status if they’re used to seeing when you’re online.
- Explore Other Privacy Settings: While you’re at it, explore other privacy settings to enhance your Facebook experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I turn off active status for specific contacts?
No, you can’t selectively hide your active status from specific contacts; it’s either on or off for everyone.
Will I still receive messages if my active status is off?
Yes, you will still receive messages; others just won’t see that you’re active.
Does turning off active status log me out of Facebook?
No, it simply hides your active status but keeps you logged in.
Can I appear offline on Messenger only?
Yes, the steps are similar. Open Messenger, go to settings, find “Active Status,” and toggle it off.
Will my past activity be affected?
No, turning off active status only hides your current online presence. Past activities and statuses remain visible.
Summary
- Open the Facebook app or website.
- Navigate to settings.
- Select “Settings & Privacy.”
- Choose “Active Status.”
- Toggle off active status.
Conclusion
Turning off active status on Facebook is a handy way to enjoy some privacy while staying connected. Whether you’re trying to avoid distractions, focus on other tasks, or simply don’t want others to know when you’re online, this feature is a great tool.
Remember, you can always switch it back on if needed. Plus, exploring other privacy settings can further enhance your control over your online presence. So, dive into those settings and tailor your Facebook experience to fit your needs perfectly. Happy socializing—on your terms!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.