Since you’ve come to this post, you probably want to set up an anonymous Facebook account. So you’re most likely concerned about your privacy, and at the same time you’d like to be able to access the service and check out what’s going on with your friends.
In today’s post I have included 2 ways to set up a Facebook account anonymously. In addition to the possible ways, I also described the potential risks involved. This is because it is officially mandatory to give your name on Facebook. In today’s post, I also debunk the false information that people often come across when looking for ways to use a Facebook account without a name. I encourage you to read the post.
Is creating an anonymous Facebook account (without a surname) allowed?
As I mentioned in the introduction, Facebook rules require users to use their real name in their personal account. According to the rules, the surname in the user’s name should be the same as the one that appears on the user’s identity document.
However, Facebook allows the use of diminutives or different versions of the name. For example, a user named Alison may use the form Ali, Ally, or Allie. The surname, however, must remain unchanged. For more information on the use of first and last names on Facebook, click here.
Of course, the fact that Facebook does not condone the creation of personal accounts without a real name does not mean that all users comply. Below you will find ways to get around the requirement.
How to create an anonymous Facebook account? 2 ways
If you try to leave the name field blank when creating an account, Facebook will of course demand that you fill it in. Without providing your name, you will not complete the registration. Users who wish to remain anonymous use two simple ways, which I have described below.
1. Using a made-up name
The most common way for users to remain anonymous on Facebook is to simply create an account using made-up personal information. This is, of course, against Facebook rules, which does not mean that it is physically impossible. This way, users can see what their friends are up to, without being listed under their own name.
2. Using an altered or shortened version of your name
The second option is to create a Facebook account in your own but changed or shortened name. For example, a person with the surname Smith might use the abbreviation S-th, Sth or S-h. This way, of course, still does not comply with Facebook rules, but at least it makes our friends guess who we are. This way, they won’t be reluctant to add us as a friend.
What are the disadvantages of creating an anonymous Facebook account?
The main disadvantage of both of the above methods is, of course, that they are against Facebook rules. We do not face any legal unpleasantness because of this, but we may lose access to our account in the future. Facebook can request that we verify our identity with an ID card at any time. If the name on the proof does not match the one we have set up on the profile, our account will most likely be deleted.
Creating a Facebook account with a false name involves another inconvenience. Our friends may not accept friend invitations from us. More and more users are concerned about their privacy, so they do not allow anyone outside of their Facebook friends to view their profiles.
So we may not be able to access most friends’ posts and stories.
Myths about using and setting up an anonymous Facebook account (without a surname)
While looking for ways to use a Facebook account anonymously, I came across two frequently repeated but untrue pieces of information online. Alleged ways described on various blogs and portals as effective, in reality do not achieve anything, as I have verified for myself.
Myth No. 1: Changing your language will allow you to remove your surname from your profile
One of the frequently mentioned ways, which I have personally tested and which I have found to be untrue, is to change the language to Indonesian or Tamil. Apparently, in some regions where these languages are spoken, some people do not have a separate first and last name. I honestly don’t know if this is the case, but certainly the trick is ineffective.
After changing the language to the aforementioned, Facebook still demanded that I complete the last name field. Perhaps this method would have been effective if I had previously changed the location using a VPN. However, it makes no sense to go to such trouble. Using just your name would also break Facebook’s rules. If verified using proof, our account would most likely be deleted. So you might as well just enter a made-up name.
Myth No. 2: An account without a name on Facebook can be created using a form
For people who do not have a separate first and last name, Facebook does indeed allow you to create an account with a one-part name. However, the condition is that you actually have to use such a personal name. In order to make use of this option, all you have to do is fill in a special form – link. Once this has been completed, you will need to provide proof of your identity. Therefore, people who have a separate first and last name will not be able to create an account without providing their surname anyway.
In conclusion, creating an anonymous Facebook account without giving your real name is possible. However, this does not mean that it is in accordance with Facebook’s rules. Facebook is clear that every user should only use their real name as it appears on their documents. If you create an account with a false or altered name, you must be aware that your account may be deleted.
