How to disable active status on Messenger and Facebook

Last update: 06/11/2026
Author Isaac
  • Individual configuration is required in both the Facebook and Messenger applications.
  • Access through the privacy menus and active status settings on each platform.
  • Deactivation of specific switches to avoid visibility of the green connection point.

White blocks forming the word PRIVACY on a red background, representing digital privacy.

Sometimes, the last thing we want is for everyone to know we're online, whether it's to avoid being messaged at an inopportune moment or simply to maintain some privacy in our digital lives . The problem is that Facebook and Messenger frequently change their menus, and it's understandable to go crazy looking for the option to disable your online status if the tutorials you find are outdated.

If you've ever turned off your online status in one app but suspect you're still showing as available on the web version or your profile, don't worry. To ensure the effect is complete and no one sees that annoying green dot, you need to adjust the setting on all the platforms you use. Here's how to configure everything correctly so no one knows when you're online.

How to hide your activity on the Facebook app

Smartphones secured with a chain and padlock, symbolizing the protection of personal data.

To begin, let's focus on the main social network. To stop appearing active, open the Facebook app and go to the main menu, which is usually located in the upper right corner. Once there, find the Settings and Privacy section and click on it.

Now, go to the Settings menu and scroll down until you find the Active Status section . You'll see an option called "Show when you're active"; simply tap it and turn off the blue switch . This is the first step towards going unnoticed.

Steps to disable status in Messenger

Person in a dark room illuminated only by their mobile phone screen, conveying the idea of ​​digital invisibility.

Many people mistakenly believe that doing the above is enough, but Messenger has its own method. Open the messaging app and tap the three horizontal lines in the top left corner of your screen.

  Apps to upload photos without losing quality to Facebook

Once the menu is open, tap the gear icon to access the settings. Find the option that says "Active status" and turn off the main switch . Doing this will prevent your contacts from seeing that you're browsing chats in real time.

Close-up of hands managing applications on a smartphone, ideal for illustrating settings configuration.

It's crucial to understand that technology should serve us, not the other way around. If you feel confused by constant updates, remember that the key is to check both settings , because if you leave one enabled, you'll likely continue to appear as active on some devices.

If you follow all these steps on your mobile device and also check the settings from your computer's browser, you can make your online presence invisible to others. Simply navigate through the privacy menus of both apps and ensure the visibility switches are turned off to manage your online time without pressure.