Snapchat is a popular social media platform that allows users to share pictures and videos that disappear after being viewed. However, for those concerned about privacy, data sharing, or simply wanting to take a break, deleting or deactivating your Snapchat account is an option. This guide will walk you through the steps of deleting or deactivating your Snapchat account, how to retrieve your data, and what happens to your account during the deactivation period.
How to Delete Snapchat on a Web Browser (For Android & Computer Users)
If you’re an Android or computer user, you can only delete your Snapchat account through a web browser. Here’s how:
- Open a web browser and go to accounts.snapchat.com.
- Log in using your Snapchat credentials.
- Select Delete my account from the list of options.
- Enter your username and password again for confirmation.
- Click Continue to complete the process.
Once you delete your account, it will enter a 30-day deactivation period. You can reactivate your account by logging in during this time, but if you do not log in, it will be permanently deleted.
How to Delete Snapchat on iOS
For iPhone users, you can delete your Snapchat account directly from the app:
- Open the Snapchat app on your iPhone.
- Tap your profile icon or Bitmoji in the top left corner.
- Tap the Settings icon (a gear icon) in the top right.
- Scroll down to the Account Actions section and select Delete Account.
- Enter your Snapchat username and password to confirm.
- Tap Continue to finalize the deletion process.
Like the web browser method, your account will be deactivated for 30 days, after which it will be permanently deleted if you don’t log in.
How to Restore a Deactivated Snapchat Account
If you decide you want your Snapchat account back during the 30-day deactivation period, it’s easy to reactivate it. Simply log back in using your username and password, and your account will be restored. Keep in mind it may take up to 24 hours for your account to be fully reactivated.
Once the 30-day window passes, however, your Snapchat account will be permanently deleted, and there is no way to recover it.
What’s the Difference Between Deleting and Deactivating a Snapchat Account?
Many users may be confused about the difference between deleting and deactivating their Snapchat account. When you deactivate your account, it becomes invisible to others, and you can’t use the platform during this period. However, if you log back in within 30 days, your account will be reactivated. If you do not log in within 30 days, your account will be permanently deleted, and all your data will be lost.
How to Download Your Snapchat Data Before Deletion
If you want to keep your Snapchat Memories, saved chats, or other personal data, you can download it before deleting your account. Here’s how to download your data:
1. Log in to Snapchat: Go to accounts.snapchat.com using a web browser and sign in with your username and password.
2. Access ‘My Data’: Once logged in, find and click on My Data from the menu.
3. Select Data for Download: Review the data categories available for download, such as your chat history, Memories, and account information.
4. Confirm Email Address: Ensure that your email address is correct, as this is where Snapchat will send your download link.
5. Submit Request: After reviewing your selected data and confirming your email, click on the Submit button.
6. Receive the Download Link: Snapchat will email a link to the verified address associated with your account. Open the email and click the link to download a .zip file containing your data.
For iOS users, this can also be done through the Snapchat app by navigating to the Settings and selecting My Data under Privacy Controls.
When You Delete Snapchat, Does It Delete Your Account?
Deleting the Snapchat app from your phone does not delete your account. Your account remains active unless you specifically follow the deletion process described above. If you simply remove the app, you can still log back in, and all your data will still be accessible. If you want to fully delete your account, you must go through the steps outlined for deactivation and deletion.
When deleting the Snapchat app alone, your account stays active, and you will continue to appear in friends’ lists. To prevent this, you need to fully delete the account from the platform.
Common FAQs About Deleting or Deactivating Snapchat
How long does it take to permanently delete a Snapchat account?
Once you delete your Snapchat account, it will remain deactivated for 30 days. If you don’t log in during this period, it will be permanently deleted on day 31.
Can I delete Snapchat without logging in?
No, you must log in to your Snapchat account to delete or deactivate it. Without logging in, you cannot access the account deletion settings.
Will deactivating Snapchat delete my saved messages?
Deactivating your account does not delete saved messages. However, once your account is permanently deleted after 30 days, all your data, including saved messages, will be lost.
What happens if I delete Snapchat permanently?
If you delete Snapchat permanently, your profile, messages, friends list, and memories will be erased. You will lose access to the account, and it cannot be recovered.
Stephen is the author and creator behind Snapchatplanet.org, a platform dedicated to providing in-depth guides, updates, and insights about Snapchat’s latest features, including the popular Snapchat Planets. With a keen interest in social media trends and a passion for simplifying technology, Stephen ensures that his readers get clear, accurate, and up-to-date information.