Facebook Messenger is one of the most popular chat apps that is used by a lot of people. While the read receipts feature in the app helps users see when their messages have been read, there are times when you may want to a read message without informing the sender about the same. So, this guide will show you several ways to read Facebook Messenger messages without being seen on PC and mobile devices like Android and iOS.
How to Read Messenger Messages without Being Seen on Android or iOS
Method 1: Use Airplane Mode
Don’t open the app when you receive a new Messenger notification. Instead, follow the steps mentioned below:
- Pull down the notification panel and tap on the Airplane mode quick toggle.
- Now open Messenger, read the message, and close the app.
- Long press on the Messenger app icon in the app drawer.
- Tap on App info, then on Storage usage, and tap on Clear data.
- Tap on Delete to confirm your action.
- Relogin with your credentials.
Method 2: Restrict Conversation
Another mobile option is to restrict the conversation so new messages get filtered into the Message Requests section instead of your main inbox. The sender won’t get a read receipt unless you open the filtered conversation.
On Android:
Follow the steps mentioned below to restrict conversation on Android:
- Open Messenger and long-press on the conversation you want.
- Tap on Restrict and then on Restrict_(username).
- Tap on the three lines in the top left corner and select Message requests.
- You’ll see the restricted user here. Open the message and read it without the sender knowing.
On iOS:
Follow the steps mentioned below to restrict conversation on Ios:
- Open Messenger and swipe left on the targeted conversation.
- Tap on More and select Restrict.
- Tap on the three lines in the top left corner and then on Message requests.
- Open the message of the restricted sender and read it without them knowing.
Method 3: Read Notifications
Most phones display message previews in notifications, allowing you to read some or all of the new message text without opening Messenger.
On Android and iOS, just pull down the notification panel and slide down on the Messenger notification to read the whole message.
Note: The drawback is that you can’t see any attached photos or other media this way.
How to Read Messenger Messages without Being Seen on PC
Method 1: Use Browser Extensions
For Google Chrome, install the Unseen extension which automatically disables read receipts on Facebook and other sites. It’s a simple way to view messages privately without extra steps.
For Firefox users, the FB Unseen extension works similarly to block those receipts from going out.
Method 2: Use Facebook Site Preferences
Facebook has its built-in setting for disabling the last seen indicator though it is a little complicated to find it.
- Log into Facebook web and click on the Messenger icon.
- Click on the three dots and then on Active Status.
- Turn the toggle off for Active Status and click on Save.
Also Read: How to Read Instagram Messages Without Being Seen
While there isn’t a privacy setting in Facebook Messenger that lets you turn off read receipts, we hope the above workarounds help you read messages without being seen.
If you have any queries or suggestions, do let us know in the comments section below. Stay tuned to TechCult for more helpful guides.
