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How to access and download your Facebook data

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How to access and download your Facebook data

Reviewing your Facebook data allows you to see what personal information Facebook has collected about you, helping you make informed decisions about your privacy settings. 

You might also need a copy of your data, which serves as a backup of your photos, messages and memories in case you lose access to your account or decide to delete it. 

Additionally, understanding what data Facebook stores can help you better comprehend how the platform uses your information for advertising and content personalization. Here’s how to do it.

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A person logging onto Facebook. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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What data can you access on Facebook?

Facebook collects a wide range of data from you, including your profile information, posts, photos, comments, likes, friends list, location data, search history and interactions with ads and pages. The company uses this data to personalize your experience and show you targeted ads. It also uses the data and shares it with third-party partners to improve its services.

When you request your data, you can access files containing the information you’ve provided (like your name, email and address) as well as account activity such as posts, photos, messages and data logs. These logs include your interactions, device information and connections to third-party apps, websites and services.

Keep in mind that not all data Facebook collects about you will be included in your download. 

HOW TO MANAGE A DECEASED LOVED ONE’S FACEBOOK ACCOUNT

How to download your Facebook data on desktop

The process of accessing and downloading your data from Facebook can change. As of May 2025, you can access and download your information on Facebook using the steps below:

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  • Click your profile picture icon in the top-right corner of the screen. When the menu appears, click Settings & Privacy.
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Steps to download your Facebook data on desktop. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

  • Click Settings in the submenu that appears.

WHAT HACKERS CAN LEARN ABOUT YOU FROM A DATA BROKER FILE

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Steps to download your Facebook data on desktop. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

  • Click Accounts Center in the left sidebar.
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Steps to download your Facebook data on desktop. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

  • In the left menu, click Your information and permissions. Then, click Access your information in the right panel.

5 MOBILE PRIVACY TERMS YOU NEED TO KNOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF

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Steps to download your Facebook data on desktop. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

  • After verifying that all the information you need is there, scroll to the bottom and click Download your information.
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Steps to download your Facebook data on desktop   (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

  • In the pop-up, click Download or transfer information.
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Steps to download your Facebook data on desktop. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

  • Select your Facebook account from the list of accounts and click Next.
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Steps to download your Facebook data on desktop. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

  • Now you need to select how much information you want to receive. We recommend clicking Available information to get a complete copy of everything you need.
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Steps to download your Facebook data on desktop. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

  • Click Download to device so that it’s downloaded to your computer.
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Steps to download your Facebook data on desktop. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

  • Now you need to select your file options. In the Date range field, select the period from which you want Facebook to send your data. The default is Last year, but you can choose Last 3 years or All time for a more comprehensive dataset (note that longer periods take more time to prepare the data). In the Notify field, verify that your email address is correct. Keep the Format and Media quality fields set to HTML and Medium, respectively. Then, click Create files.
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Steps to download your Facebook data on desktop. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Wait for an email notification from Facebook that your requested file is ready to download. That can take up to an hour. Once you receive it, you have four days until the download request expires. When you receive the notification, log into your Facebook account and follow the steps below to download the requested information:

  • Click the bell icon in the top-right corner. In the menu, click the notification that says “The files you requested are ready to download.”
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Steps to download your Facebook data on desktop. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

  • Click Download in the pop-up.
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Steps to download your Facebook data on desktop. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

  • Enter your Facebook password and click Continue to download the file to your computer.
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Steps to download your Facebook data on desktop. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

HOW FACEBOOK SECRETLY COLLECTS YOUR INFORMATION EVEN IF YOU HAVEN’T SIGNED UP 

How to download your Facebook data on mobile

The steps below are for iPhone, but they will also work on Android. However, some menu items may appear in slightly different locations or use slightly different names compared to the iPhone. Follow the steps below:

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  • Tap Menu (the profile picture icon) in the bottom-right corner of the screen.
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Steps to download your Facebook data on mobile. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

  • Tap Settings & Privacy to expand it and then tap Settings.
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Steps to download your Facebook data on mobile. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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Steps to download your Facebook data on mobile. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

  • Tap Your information and permissions.
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Steps to download your Facebook data on mobile. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

  • Tap Access your information.
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Steps to download your Facebook data on mobile. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

  • You can review the information to see if it includes everything you need. Afterward, scroll to the bottom and tap Download your information.
  • Tap Download or transfer information.
  • Select the Facebook account(s) you want to download the information from and tap Next.
  • On the screen for selecting how much information you want, tap Available information to get a complete copy.
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Steps to download your Facebook data on mobile. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

  • Next, tap Download to device to store the information on your phone.
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Steps to download your Facebook data on mobile. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

  • Next, you will need to create the file to download. Set Date range to Last 3 years or All time (might take longer to create). Ensure the email address in the Notify field is the one where you want the notification to be sent. Keep the Format and Media quality fields as they are: HTML and Medium, respectively. Finally, tap the Create files button.
facebook data 24

Steps to download your Facebook data on mobile. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Wait for an email notification from Facebook that your requested file is ready to download. That can take up to an hour. Once you receive it, you have four days until the download request expires. When you receive the notification, follow the steps below to download the requested information:

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  • Open the Facebook app and tap the Notifications (the bell icon) in the bottom-right corner.
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Steps to download your Facebook data on mobile. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

  • In the Notifications screen, tap the notification that says “The files you requested are ready to download.”
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Steps to download your Facebook data on mobile. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

  • Tap Download in the pop-up.
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Steps to download your Facebook data on mobile. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

  • Enter your Facebook password and tap Continue to download the file to your phone.
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Steps to download your Facebook data on mobile. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

WHY IT’S HARD TO TRUST EMAIL NOTIFICATIONS FROM FACEBOOK

Kurt’s key takeaways

Downloading your Facebook data helps you understand what information the platform holds about you. While it may take some time to compile, especially for longer periods, it’s worth doing periodically so you’re aware of your digital footprint on the platform and keep a personal backup in case something happens to the online version.

Did you find any surprising information that made you reconsider your social media usage? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com/Contact

For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter

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Technology

Apple’s latest AirPods are already on sale for $99 before Prime Day

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Apple’s latest AirPods are already on sale for  before Prime Day

Amazon Prime Day kicks off tomorrow, July 8th, but you don’t have to wait until then to pick up Apple’s latest pair of AirPods at a discount. Right now, the AirPods 4 are available for around $99 ($30 off) at Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart, while the AirPods 4 with noise cancellation are going for around $149 ($30 off) at Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart. That’s within $10 of the lowest price we’ve seen on the ANC model and matches the lowest price to date on the base pair.

Both versions of Apple’s current-gen earbuds feature shorter stems and larger buds than previous models, allowing them to accommodate a broader range of ear shapes. The open-style earbuds use a hard plastic body that doesn’t create a tight seal inside your ear, which means they sacrifice some bass response compared to gummy-tipped earbuds. Hardshell earbuds won’t create pressure in your ear, though, which can feel uncomfortable after listening to music for a few hours.

Overall, the fourth-gen AirPods sound better than previous models due to a custom amplifier and new acoustic architecture. Audio quality is somewhat subjective and largely depends on how the music was recorded, mixed, and mastered; however, former Verge staffer Chris Welch noted in his review that he was pleased with the sound of Apple’s latest pair of wireless earbuds. If you’re upgrading from an older pair, you’ll notice a difference.

The AirPods 4 run on Apple’s H2 chip, which is required for Voice Isolation, a feature that reduces background noise and amplifies the volume of your voice during calls. If you’re using an iPhone, you can say “Hey Siri” to evoke Apple’s smart assistant to place calls, hear and return messages, and play music. You can also locate the earbuds using the Find My app on Apple devices if they’re misplaced.

The entry-level model can last up to five hours on a single charge and can be fully charged five times using the included USB-C charging case (the ANC model also offers wireless charging). Both pairs of earbuds are also IP54-rated for dust, sweat, and water resistance, ensuring you can wear them safely during workouts. Needless to say, the AirPods 4 are excellent earbuds at their current price, whether you opt for the model with active noise cancellation or not.

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How micro-robots may soon treat your sinus infections

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How micro-robots may soon treat your sinus infections

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

A breakthrough in medical technology could soon change how sinus infections are treated. Scientists have created micro-robots for sinus infection treatment that can enter the nasal cavity, eliminate bacteria directly at the source, and exit without harming surrounding tissue. This drug-free, targeted approach may reduce our dependence on antibiotics.

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A woman with a sinus infection. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

What are micro-robots for sinus infection treatment?

These microscopic robots are smaller than a speck of dust. They are made of magnetic particles enhanced with copper atoms. Doctors insert them through a narrow duct in the nostril. Once inside, the micro-robots are guided by magnetic fields to reach the infected area.

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At that point, a fiber optic light heats the particles and triggers a chemical reaction. This reaction breaks through thick mucus and destroys harmful bacteria at the infection site. As a result, treatment becomes faster, more precise, and far less invasive.

This latest advancement comes from a collaboration of researchers at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, along with universities in Guangxi, Shenzhen, Jiangsu, Yangzhou, and Macau. Their work, published in “Science Robotics,” has helped move micro-robotic medical technology closer to real-world applications. 

Why use micro-robots instead of antibiotics?

Traditional antibiotics circulate throughout the entire body. In contrast, micro-robots target only the infected area. This reduces side effects and lowers the risk of antibiotic resistance. Furthermore, patients may recover faster because the treatment goes straight to the source.

A woman with a sinus infection.

A woman with a sinus infection. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Are micro-robots safe?

So far, animal trials have shown promising results. Micro-robots successfully cleared infections in pig sinuses and live rabbits, without causing tissue damage. However, scientists still need to ensure that every robot exits the body after treatment. Leftover particles could pose long-term risks.

In addition, public acceptance remains a challenge. The idea of tiny machines inside the body makes some people uncomfortable. Nevertheless, experts believe those fears will fade over time.

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What other uses are possible?

Researchers are already exploring how micro-robots could treat infections in the bladder, stomach, intestines, and bloodstream. Several teams around the world are working to make the technology more advanced and adaptable for deep internal use. If successful, these innovations could revolutionize the way we fight bacteria in the human body.

A doctor examining a woman with a sinus infection.

A doctor examining a woman with a sinus infection. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Kurt’s key takeaways

The rise of micro-robots for sinus infection treatment marks a major shift in medical care. By offering precise, non-invasive therapy without antibiotics, this method could redefine how infections are treated. With continued research and testing, these tiny tools may soon become powerful allies in modern medicine.

Would you let microscopic robots crawl through your sinuses if it meant never needing antibiotics again? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report
Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts, and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide – free when you join my CYBERGUY.COM/NEWSLETTER.

Copyright 2025 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.

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Cyberpunk Edgerunners 2 will be even sadder and bloodier

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Cyberpunk Edgerunners 2 will be even sadder and bloodier

The new season will be directed by Kai Ikarashi, who also directed episode six in the first season, “Girl on Fire.” There’s no word yet on when Cyberpunk: Edgerunners 2 will premiere, but they did show off this new poster artwork. A trailer will be shown later tonight during a panel at 8:30PM PT for the animation studio, Trigger.

Showrunner and writer Bartosz Sztybor said during Friday’s panel that for season one, “I just wanted to make the whole world sad… when people are sad, I’m a bit happy,” and that this new 10-episode season will be “…of course, sadder, but it will be also darker, more bloody, and more raw.”

A brief summary of the follow-up series tells fans what to expect following the end of David’s story in season one:

Cyberpunk: Edgerunners 2 presents a new standalone 10-episode story from the world of Cyberpunk 2077— a raw chronicle of redemption and revenge. In a city that thrives in the spotlight of violence, one question remains: when the world is blinded by spectacle, what extremes do you have to go to make your story matter?

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