Instructions cover Facebook on the desktop as well as the Facebook and Messenger iOS and Android apps.

Here’s what to do if you prefer more privacy.

Navigate toFacebook.comand select theMessengericon.

Select the Messenger Options menu

SelectOptions(three dots).

SelectTurn Off Active Status.

ChooseTurn off active status for all contactsif you don’t want to be disturbed by anyone.

Select Turn Off Active Status.

SelectOkaywhen you’ve made your selection.

Your active status remains off until you turn it back on.

TapMenu(three lines) in the lower-right corner (iOS) or upper-right corner (Android).

Choose Turn Off Active Status for All Contacts if you don’t want to be disturbed by anyone.

Scroll down and tapSettings & Privacy.

Scroll down to thePrivacysection and tapActive Status.

Tap the toggle next toShow when you’re activeto turn it off.

Choose Turn Off Active Status for All Contacts except to allow some people to see your online status

From theChatstab, select yourprofile picture.

Toggle offActive Status, then tapTurn Offto confirm.

(And hey respect peoples' boundaries!)

Choose Turn off Active Status for Only Some Contacts if there are just a few people you don’t want to know you’re on Facebook.

On Facebook, select yourprofile image>options& privacy>options.

Then, selectYour Facebook Information>Off-Facebook activity>Disconnect future activity.

Next, turn offFuture off-Facebook activityand selectConfirm.

Tap Menu, Settings and Privacy, then Settings

The process is similar on the mobile app.

Active Status settings in the Facebook app

Turn off Active Status on the Messenger App