Facebook displays an on-screen message when a post or link is no longer viewable, telling users: “When this happens, it’s usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it or it’s been deleted.”
The notice appears across Facebook’s web and mobile platforms when content has restricted visibility, been removed by the poster or is otherwise inaccessible. Facebook is owned by Meta Platforms Inc., a global technology company that operates several social networks and messaging services.
The message can surface for everyday users, journalists and others trying to follow links or view shared posts, and it highlights how privacy settings and content removal affect access to information on social media.
Content may become unavailable for several routine reasons, including a user narrowing an audience with privacy controls, deleting a post or changes to account status. Content also can become inaccessible if it violates platform rules and is taken down through moderation.
Because the original post or the account owner’s intent is not always clear from the notice, users and researchers may encounter gaps when tracking online conversations. We will provide more information as it becomes available.
