How to Download a Private Facebook Video You Are Tagged In
Category: Business | Published: November 4, 2025
Being tagged in a private Facebook video is flattering — but it also makes downloading that clip more complicated. Private videos are restricted by the uploader’s privacy settings, so the standard “copy link and use a downloader” tricks usually won’t work. Below are safe, legal, and practical ways to get a copy (or not) — plus clear warnings about what you must avoid.
Important: privacy, permissions, and legality (read this first)
You must get the uploader’s permission before downloading or Facebook video downloader a private video. If you don’t have permission, do not try to bypass privacy controls — that can violate Facebook’s Terms of Service, copyright, and possibly local laws.
If the video contains copyrighted material (music, TV, etc.) or other people’s private content, the uploader’s permission may not be enough for redistribution.
I will not provide instructions for hacking, exploiting, or using tools to secretly download private content. If that’s what you intended, I can’t help — but I will offer legal, privacy-respecting alternatives below.
Best approach: ask the uploader (fastest and simplest)
Most of the time the easiest solution is to ask the person who posted the video to send you a copy.
Why this is best
It respects privacy and consent.
You get the original file (best quality).
No third‑party tools or screen recording needed.
Suggested message template
Hi — I saw the private video you tagged me in and would love to keep a copy. Could you please download it and send me the original file (MP4) or a link I can access? Thanks!
If they agree, they can download the video from their profile or Page and then:
Send via Messenger (file attachment),
Share via cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox) with a download link,
Or email the file.
If the uploader won’t/can’t send the file: options with consent
If the uploader can’t send the original but consents to you keeping a copy, you can use screen recording. Screen recording is generally acceptable only with permission.
On iPhone (iOS)
Turn on Do Not Disturb to avoid interruptions.
Open Control Center and ensure Screen Recording is added (Settings → Control Center → add Screen Recording).
Play the private video in Facebook (full screen, landscape if appropriate).
Swipe to open Control Center and tap the Record button; wait for the 3‑second countdown.
Play the video from start to finish.
Stop recording (tap the red status bar or open Control Center and tap the record button again).
Trim the start/end in Photos app if needed; save/share the file.
Tips: record in airplane mode (if you have permission and want to avoid incoming calls), set brightness and volume for clear capture, and record at the best available playback resolution.
On Android
Enable Do Not Disturb.
Use the built‑in Screen Recorder (swipe down quick settings). If not available, use a reputable app from Google Play (check reviews).
Play the private Facebook video full screen and start recording.
Stop recording when finished and trim if needed.
On Desktop (Windows/macOS)
Use built‑in tools (Windows Game Bar, macOS Screen Recording) or a desktop recorder such as OBS Studio:
Open the video in a browser and set it to the highest playback quality available.
Configure the recorder to capture the browser window or system audio.
Start recording, play the video, then stop and save the file.
Trim and export as MP4 for sharing.
Note: Desktop recording often yields better quality than phone screen recording.
If you’re the uploader or it’s your video
If the private video was posted by you (your Facebook account), you can download it directly:
Go to your profile → Videos (or the post on your timeline) → click the three‑dot menu → Download.
Or go to Settings & Privacy → Your Facebook Information → Download Your Information and request a copy that includes videos.
Why many “downloader” tools won’t work (and are risky)
Most online downloaders and browser extensions rely on the video being publicly accessible. Private videos won’t be served to those tools.
Some websites or extensions claim to bypass privacy — these are often scams, steal credentials, inject malware, or violate policies. Don’t use them.
Avoid giving any site your Facebook login — that’s a fast track to account compromise.
What to do if the uploader refuses (and you think you have a right to the video)
If you believe you have a legitimate claim to the footage (e.g., it’s your intellectual property or you legally own the content), try these steps:
Politely explain why you need a copy and offer to sign an agreement if required.
If the uploader refuses and the matter is serious, consult legal advice — don’t try to circumvent privacy settings yourself.
For platform disputes, Facebook’s support may help in narrow situations (ownership disputes), but they don’t usually intervene to force downloads.
Quick checklist (do this before attempting any download or recording)
Do you have explicit permission from the uploader? If no — stop.
Is the content copyrighted or contains other people? Consider additional permissions.
Will you only use the copy for personal, offline viewing? If planning to repost, get written permission.
Use secure, reputable tools and avoid sharing your Facebook credentials.
Final words
Downloading a private Facebook video you’re tagged in is possible — but only with consent and by respecting privacy. The fastest, cleanest route is to ask the uploader to send you the original file. If that’s not possible but you have permission, screen recording (phone or desktop) is an acceptable fallback that will give you a usable copy. If the uploader refuses, do not try to bypass privacy settings — instead seek permission, mediation, or legal guidance.
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