How to Turn Off Direct Messages on Twitter

Tired of getting random DMs on Twitter? You’re not alone. Direct Messages can be useful, but sometimes they just open the door to spam, unwanted messages, or even harassment. If you want to take control of your Twitter inbox, here’s how you can turn off DMs—or at least limit who can contact you.

1. Open Twitter Settings

First, log into your Twitter account on the web or the mobile app. Click on your profile icon and go to Settings and privacy.

2. Go to Privacy and Safety

Under Settings, select Privacy and safety. This is where you control who can interact with you on Twitter.

3. Find “Direct Messages”

Scroll down until you see Direct Messages. Click or tap it to open your DM settings.

4. Adjust Who Can Message You

You’ll see an option that says Allow message requests from everyone. By default, this might be turned on, which means anyone—even people you don’t follow—can send you a DM.

• To limit DMs: Toggle OFF “Allow message requests from everyone.” Now, only people you follow can send you a message.
• To stop DMs completely: There isn’t a “turn off DMs” button, but if you don’t follow anyone (or unfollow people), no one will be able to DM you. Alternatively, you can mute or block accounts as needed.

5. Extra: Control Group Messages

There’s also an option called Allow people you don’t follow to add you to group conversations. You might want to toggle this OFF too, so you aren’t dragged into random group DMs.

Quick Recap

1. Go to Settings and privacy
2. Tap Privacy and safety
3. Choose Direct Messages
4. Toggle off Allow message requests from everyone
5. Optionally, block or mute accounts for extra peace

Final Thoughts

While Twitter doesn’t let you shut off DMs completely with one switch, you can put up some strong barriers. Limiting who can message you gives you more control over your experience and helps keep spam and harassment at bay.

If you need help with other Twitter privacy settings, let us know in the comments!

Mark Vincent

Tech enthusiast and content creator passionate about making technology simple for everyone. I share practical tips, guides, and reviews on the latest in computers, software, and gadgets. Let’s explore the digital world together!