Facebook previously required you to have an account to use Messenger but thankfully that’s recently changed
Whether it’s a moral outrage over privacy issues or swearing off social media, there are plenty of reasons to not have a Facebook account.
But this shouldn’t stop people making use of the Messenger app on iOS and Android devices.
Here is a handy explainer about the easy steps to get your Messenger account up-and-running.
Downloading the App
The initial setup process doesn’t work on Desktop as it requires access to your phone for security verification.
1. Messenger is often pre-installed on Android devices, you may need to go into the “ Google Play Store”. Search for the app and then Enable or Install.
Similarly, you’ll need to access the App Store on your iOS. Search for the Messenger app before installing it.
2. Once the app is first opened, it may prompt you for “permissions”: this gives the app access to your contacts in particular, and ask to update for the latest version.
3. Be aware of third-party apps that market themselves as Messenger equivalents – you should look for the publisher’s name in a subheading. In this case, it should read “Messenger – Text and Video Chat for Free”; “Facebook”
Setting up an account
Now in the app, you’ll need to set up an account if you don’t have one. It’s no longer mandatory to have a Facebook account.
1. If prompted, select the “Not on Facebook option”.
2. It does require you to enter a phone number and then a password combination.
3. Finally, you will be asked to enter your name for contacts to identify you.
4. The final security check involves entering a six-digit-code that’s sent by text message, so make sure that your phone number was accurate.
5. With that done, you’ve created your account! It’s useful but not necessary to then upload a profile picture and turn on “Find your phone contacts on Messenger”. This will both get you access to your existing contacts but allow Facebook users to help interact with you.
Hints for a strong password
It’s increasingly important to keep yourself as secure as possible when online, this includes keeping a strong password.
Strong passwords that aren’t vulnerable to hackers will be longer with a combination of numbers, symbols and uppercase/ lowercase letters.
It’s recommended that you don’t reuse passwords from other accounts to keep you safe. Password managers are also available to keep track of different login details across websites and mobile apps.
Source: Mirror
