X, previously known as Twitter, has recently rolled out a feature that allows all users to make audio and video calls for free. This functionality is activated by default, enabling any user you follow to reach out to you via call.
This automatic activation of the call feature by X, without requiring user consent, has raised concerns. Following someone now potentially opens the door to receiving calls, which might not be a welcome feature for everyone.
Given X’s bad history with handling bot accounts, this feature’s introduction might lead to privacy concerns and unwanted disruptions. If you want to avoid these issues, tweaking your settings is the way forward.
To disable the audio and video calling feature on your X account, navigate to the direct messages section in the X app. From there, access the settings by clicking the gear icon located at the top-right corner. Next, find the Enable audio and video calling option and turn it off – this will stop anybody from calling you.
If you prefer to keep the calling feature on but with restrictions, keep Enable audio and video calling turned on. Then, check the box for People in your address book and uncheck the box for People you follow. In this way, only people you know in real-life can contact you via calls on X.
Additionally, consider activating the Enhanced call privacy feature. According to X, this hides your IP address from callers, which is particularly useful for individuals like whistleblowers or journalists who need to keep their whereabouts confidential. IP addresses can reveal your approximate location and other details.
X states, “If both parties to a call have this [enhanced call privacy] setting disabled (which it is by default), once our servers facilitate the initial setup, the call itself is routed peer-to-peer such that each parties [sic] IP address may be visible to the other.”
This means that without tweaking your settings, your IP address could potentially be exposed during calls.
X further explains, “However, if either party has this setting enabled, a call between the two will be relayed through X infrastructure, and the IP address of any party that has this setting enabled will be masked.”
By enabling the enhanced call privacy setting, you can add a layer of privacy to your calls and keep your IP address hidden from the other party.
X does not provide information on whether calls are encrypted on their support page, leaving some questions about the security of these communications. As of now, the audio and video call feature is currently available only on the X app for Android and iPhone.
By following the steps above, you can effectively manage your privacy and block unwanted calls on X, ensuring controlled and secure communications on the platform.
Related Read: How to Access Twitter with a VPN