Snapchat boasts over 265 million daily active users globally who log in to send snaps, video chat with friends, and build their network. However, few users take their account security seriously or properly log out after sessions. With hacking attempts and breaches on the rise, correctly logging out of Snapchat is crucial.
As an entrepreneurship consultant who assists multiple small business clients with their social media growth and security, I regularly see lax practices that compromise accounts. Applying just a few simple steps, though, you can greatly boost your Snapchat safety. Whether switching between personal and business logins or using public devices, this comprehensive article will teach you how to fully log out of Snapchat.
Why Properly Logging Out Matters
Compared to leading platforms like Instagram or Facebook, some view Snapchat as lower risk since its core feature is ephemeral content. However, even "disappearing" snaps and stories get stored in Memories. Personal conversations also occur regularly in the app. Not fully logging out leads to three core risks:
Account Takeovers
- Over 100 million Snapchat accounts were compromised in a December 2021 breach. Hackers can take over accounts, lock users out, and misuse them for scams.
Reputational Damage
- Embarrassing or false snaps sent from your account, even as a prank, cause personal and professional harm. Plus any legal issues.
Privacy Violations
- Strangers or friends accessing your account can screenshot private conversations and media, violating personal boundaries.
Simply closing the app or browser tab does not properly log you out. Taking under a minute to fully sign out mitigates unauthorized access that compromises your security and privacy.
Step-By-Step Guide: Logging Out on Mobile
Follow these instructions to securely log out of the Snapchat iOS or Android app:
- Open the Snapchat app and tap your profile icon (your Bitmoji or profile photo) in the top left corner.
- Tap the settings gear icon in the top right corner to access your account Details page.
- Scroll all the way down and tap Log Out in the bottom left section.
- Confirm logging out by tapping OK when prompted.
Logging out using mobile devices like iPhones, Androids, and tablets prevents others from accessing your account if they use your phone and enhances security. You will need to enter your credentials again the next time you log in.
Logging Out on Desktop
To log out of Snapchat on a Mac, Windows computer, or any web browser version, use these steps:
- Go to Snapchat.com and click your profile icon in the top right corner
- Select Settings from the dropdown menu.
- Scroll down to the bottom of the page and click the Log Out button.
- Click Continue to confirm logging out of all web sessions.
Following these best practices when using library computers or laptops not your own provides extra protection. Do not save your Snapchat login credentials on public machines.
Signing Out Everywhere
If you want to log out of Snapchat on ALL previously logged in devices all at once:
- Follow the mobile app directions above
- At the bottom, tap Log Out Everywhere instead of just Log Out
- Confirm again by tapping Log Out
This logs you out instantly on all logged in mobile devices, desktop browsers, and any other locations connected to your credentials. It is the most thorough option and highly recommended if you lost your phone or suspect your account got compromised.
Reinforcing Snapchat Security
Alongside routinely logging out of Snapchat properly, several other account security best practices are recommended:
- Enable two-factor authentication using Snapchat‘s built-in feature
- Frequently change your Snapchat password and do not use the same across multiple sites
- Be wary of suspicious "from Snapchat" emails – the app does not email log in links
- Monitor the device list Snapchat provides and remove any you do not authorize
Implementing these security fundamentals in addition to logging out stops 99% of break-in attempts.
Troubleshooting Help
For most users, following the step-by-step instructions outlined above will smoothly log you out of Snapchat on any device. However, sometimes technical issues occur:
Account Locked? If your account gets locked, you cannot log out until you unlock it again. You may be able to unlock it directly via the app.
Browser Problems? Ensure you are using a supported, updated browser like Chrome or Safari. Try manually deleting Snapchat browser cookies and cache then attempt logging out again.
Other Issues? Deleting and reinstalling the Snapchat app often resolves persistent mobile problems. You can also contact Snapchat Support through the app or Snapchat Support online for troubleshooting help.
Address log out problems promptly to avoid getting your account suspended or permanantly deactivated by Snapchat.
The Importance of Logging Out
Snapchat serves as a popular communication platform for teens and young adults especially. However, few realize that properly logging out instead of just closing the app enhances account security and personal privacy.
Following this comprehensive, step-by-step 2023 guide on how to fully log out of Snapchat – on mobile devices, desktop browsers, and everywhere – will only take seconds. Yet doing so regularly reduces the risks of devastating hacks that compromise accounts and user content. Plus allows seamless switching between multiple accounts.
Logging in and out each usage session becomes easy second nature once you get used to the location in Snapchat‘s settings menu. Take control of your account security today by applying this quick but vital safeguard.
