Facebook has started archiving the link history of all users worldwide, both on Android and iOS devices. Although users have the option to opt out, the feature is enabled by default, allowing Meta to use the collected data for targeted advertising.
As the entire Internet moves towards a future without cookies and stricter privacy laws, targeted advertising is increasingly caught between a rock and a hard place. The new Facebook feature could be a loophole for digital marketing professionals who want to reach their target audiences more effectively, but the solution could be temporary.
The link history is a new feature that tracks the websites you have visited in the Facebook mobile browser over the past 30 days. If enabled, it stores the links you have clicked on in the Facebook mobile browser during that period. It is important to note that links visited in Messenger chats are not included in the link history.
The feature is being gradually rolled out, so many may not have it enabled in their accounts yet. Currently, Meta has not provided a specific schedule for the deployment of link history on Facebook, but has confirmed that it will be extended to all mobile users worldwide.
For now, this feature is exclusive to mobile and is not available on the web or PC app. If you have this feature enabled on your account and want to deactivate it, follow these steps:
- Open any link within the Facebook app to launch the Facebook mobile browser.
- Click on the three dots located in the bottom right corner and select “Browser Settings”.
- Turn on the switch next to “Allow link history” and confirm by pressing “Disallow”.
