How can I download my Facebook data? A guide to finding out how much the social network knows about you

Fiona Simpson26 March 2018

Facebook's collection of data has come under increased scrutiny following allegations data firm Cambridge Analytica harvested users' profiles to influence elections.

The hashtag #DeleteFacebook has trended online and many users have chosen to download copies of their Facebook data to find out what the social network has recorded about them.

Some Facebook users were alarmed to find that the social network had recorded the times and dates of incoming and outgoing calls and texts and all their contacts.

Facebook argued that the contact information is uploaded because the “most important” service it offers is the ability to connect people with friends.

People are leaving Facebook amid a data leak scandal
AFP/Getty Images

A spokeswoman said it is a “widely-used practice” and said everyone is “expressly” asked permission when signing up to the site. Cambridge Analytica has denied misusing data.

Here's how you can download your own data profile to see which of your details are stored

How can I find my data?

1. Click the downward arrow on the blue bar at the top right of your Facebook page.

2. Choose settings and click Download copy of your Facebook data at the bottom of the page.

Click here to download your data
Facebook

3. You will then need to verify your account and enter your password when asked.

4. Facebook will then email you a link to zip file within around 30 minutes.

Enter your password to receive your data
Facebook

5. Right click on the link to download the file.

How is the data categorised and what does this mean?

Data is categorised into a number of sections including contacts, photos and messages.

Click the "html" section to find the following details:

Data is broken down into sub-sections

Ads will give you a breakdown of the adverts you have opened through the site.

Apps gives information of apps used through Facebook and apps you have signed into through Facebook on your smartphone or desktop.

Contact information shows family and friends' contact details including phone numbers and email addresses.

These may have been saved on your phone through contacts, through email accounts linked to your social media account and through Facebook itself.

Events shows details of events you have attended, been invited to or showed an interest in through your Facebook profile.

Friends shows everyone you have ever added, accepted, declined and deleted on the site and the date on which you did so.

Messages gives you a catalogue of any private message you have ever received through Facebook messenger.

Photos provides a catalogue of any pictures or albums you have uploaded or been tagged in on the site.

Pokes shows you how many interactions you have had using the 'Poke' tool.

Security details how many times you have deactivated your account, when and how long for.

It also details each of your Facebook sessions, how you accessed the site and how long for.

Timeline shows every interaction with friends on the site including comments on your wall and comments you have sent to friends, events and groups.

Videos shows every video you have shared with Facebook friends.

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