Introduction
Facebook puts your chats with friends front and center in Messenger. However, what most people don’t realize is that Facebook puts messages from people who aren’t your friends, and that Facebook thinks are spam, in a completely separate area you have to go digging to find. While most of the messages that land in the Facebook Messenger message requests area are junk, it’s good to check these messages periodically to make sure you there aren’t messages parked in there that you actually wanted to get.
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Steps to Find Facebook Messenger Message Requests
- Tap to launch the Messenger app.
- Tap your profile icon at the top of this screen.
- Tap “Message Requests” in this menu.
- Tap “You May Know” at the top of this screen to see Facebook Messenger message requests from people you may know.
- Tap “Spam” to see message requests from users who Facebook thinks are spam.
What Happens if You Accept a Message Request on Facebook Messenger?
Accepting a message request on Facebook Messenger moves that message to your primary inbox, where you can have a conversation with that person going forward similar to the way you’d have a discussion with any of your Facebook friends. The person you received the request from will also be able to send you messages through the traditional channel unless you block them or adjust your message settings to only accept messages from friends.
Additionally, when you accept a message request from someone you’re not friends with, that person isn’t automatically added as your friend on Facebook. If you want to be Facebook friends with this individual, you’ll still need to send them a friend request.
And finally, if you don’t want to communicate with the person who sent the message request, you can simply trash the message instead of accepting it. When you delete a message from your Message Requests inbox it prevents that person from being able to message you again unless they choose to send another message request.
Risks Associated with Accepting Facebook Messenger Message Requests from People You Don’t Know
1. Phishing Scams
When you accept message requests from strangers on Facebook Messenger, you open yourself up to the risk of phishing scams. Phishing scams deceive you into giving away sensitive information such as passwords, credit card numbers, or other personal data. Stay vigilant and be cautious of messages that ask for personal information, especially if the sender is unknown to you. Don’t click on any links from unknown individuals, as they may lead to fake websites designed to steal your information.
2. Malware
Be cautious of messages from unknown individuals that contain links or attachments. These messages may contain malware that can harm your device and steal sensitive information. Always scan attachments before downloading them and be wary of clicking on links that look suspicious. Protect your device by keeping your device and anti-virus software updated.
3. Spam
Accepting message requests from strangers on Facebook Messenger can result in a cluttered inbox filled with spam messages. Spam messages are usually irrelevant, unwanted, and a waste of time. To avoid spam, only accept message requests from individuals you know and trust.
4. Privacy Concerns
When you accept message requests from unknown individuals, you put your privacy at risk. These individuals may have access to information you share on your Facebook profile or through Messenger. Protect your privacy by only accepting message requests from people you know and trust, and be careful about what information you share online.
5. Online Harassment
Accepting message requests from strangers on Facebook Messenger can also make you vulnerable to online harassment. Harassment can take many forms, including bullying, threats, and hate speech. If you receive harassing messages, block the sender and report the behavior to Facebook.
6. Scams
Beware of individuals who are posing as someone else and trying to scam you. Scams can take many forms, including fake lottery or prize schemes, and fake job offers. Stay alert and be cautious of messages that sound too good to be true, especially if they ask for money or personal information.
7. Personal Information
Be mindful of the personal information you share when accepting message requests from unknown individuals. Sharing too much personal information can lead to identity theft, fraud, or other negative consequences. Keep your personal information private and only share what is necessary.
