Direct messaging (DMs) on X (formerly Twitter) can be a useful way to communicate privately with other users, but it’s important to have control over who can reach you. Whether you want to open up your DMs to everyone or restrict them to a select few, the platform provides settings to manage this.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of enabling and disabling direct messages on X. We’ll cover how to allow anyone to send you DMs, as well as how to limit them to only verified accounts or disable them entirely. Additionally, we’ll show you how to block specific users from messaging you, giving you full control over your private conversations.
Understanding and adjusting your direct messaging settings on X can help you curate a more personalized and comfortable experience on the platform. By the end of this guide, you’ll be empowered to tailor your DM preferences to suit your needs, whether that’s opening up your inbox or keeping it more private.
Enabling Direct Messages on X
To allow anyone to send you direct messages on X:
- Go to your profile and tap on the menu icon (three dots or lines) to open the settings
- Select Settings and Privacy
- Tap on Privacy and Safety
- Under Direct Messages, select the option “Receive Direct Messages from anyone”
This will allow anyone who follows you to send you direct messages, even if you don’t follow them back.
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Disabling Direct Messages on X
To stop receiving direct messages from everyone on X:
- Go to your profile and tap on the menu icon (three dots or lines) to open the settings
- Select Settings and Privacy
- Tap on Privacy and Safety
- Under Direct Messages, select either “No one” to disable DMs completely or “Verified accounts only” to only allow messages from verified users
Alternatively, you can disable DMs from a specific user by:
- Open the conversation with that user
- Tap the information icon (i) next to their name
- Select Report
- Confirm your choice to stop receiving messages from that account until you send them a message first
You can also block accounts to prevent them from sending you direct messages.
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