Essential Settings on X to Secure Your Calls and Protect Your IP – Sky Bulletin
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In a significant update, Elon Musk’s platform X, which you might know as Twitter, has unlocked audio and video calling features for all its users. However, with this new functionality comes a privacy concern: your IP address and the ability to receive calls are now exposed to your followers by default.
Displaying your IP can have multiple repercussions, from annoying spam to serious risks like identity theft or even physical location tracking, which is perilous for users like activists operating under pseudonyms.
To control who can call you and safeguard your IP address visibility within the X community, follow these steps in the mobile app’s settings:
Modifying Direct Message Settings
To update your settings, open your X app, tap your profile icon on the top-left, head into “Settings and Support”, and access “Settings and privacy”. Then click into the “Privacy and safety” section and find the “Direct messages” area.
This screenshot made on Monday, March 4, 2024, shows which settings on X users need to modify to control call permissions and enhance IP privacy. (AP Photo)
Adjusting IP Address Visibility and Call Permissions
In the ‘Direct messages’ settings, switch on the “Enhanced call privacy” to conceal your IP address when using call functions. By default, this option is turned off.
You can also restrict who can call you. One of the settings lets only contacts in your address book call you, providing an extra layer of privacy.
This image, taken on Monday, March 4, 2024, depicts specific settings tweaks on X aimed at protecting a user’s IP address and managing call permissions. (AP Photo)
Disabling Call Features Altogether
If you prefer not to use the calling options, simply turn off “Enable audio and video calling” in the ‘Direct messages’ settings. This change will remove all related settings and block all X calls to your account.
It’s important to note that these privacy settings are currently only available in the mobile app version, with no corresponding web version options at this time. X has yet to comment on any upcoming changes.
Need More Tech Assistance?
For help with technology-related questions, send an email to onetechtip@ap.org.
FAQ Section
- Q: Will adjusting these settings affect my existing followers?
- A: Adjusting these settings will not affect your existing followers but will determine who can call you in the future and if your IP is hidden during calls.
- Q: Can these changes be applied through the web version of X?
- A: Currently, these settings are limited to the mobile app version of X and are not available through the web interface.
- Q: Are there any plans to bring these settings to the web version?
- A: As of now, there’s no official announcement from X regarding the availability of these privacy settings for the web version.
Conclusion
Advancements in X’s features have raised privacy concerns due to the exposure of users’ IP addresses and unsolicited calls. Adjusting settings within the mobile app can effectively manage who can call you and protect your IP address. Users should remain vigilant and regularly check for any updates or new features that may impact their privacy and take appropriate measures as demonstrated to maintain control over their communication preferences and personal data exposure.
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