The social media platform X has temporarily disabled the encrypted direct message (DM) feature for an indefinite period. According to a statement from the platform, users will no longer be able to send encrypted DMs starting today. However, access to previously sent encrypted messages will remain available.

X disables sending of encrypted direct messages

The encrypted direct message feature was not available to everyone across the platform. To use this feature, both the sender and the recipient had to have verified (blue check) accounts. Additionally, the recipient needed to either follow the sender or have previously accepted a message from them.

No official reason has been given for why the feature was disabled. It is also unclear when encrypted messages will be reactivated. This development has revived rumors that surfaced in recent weeks about X working on a new messaging app.

The new app, called XChat, aims to further expand the platform’s messaging capabilities. Besides encrypted messaging, it is expected to offer additional security features such as PIN protection for chats.

However, it has not yet been clarified whether the suspension of encrypted messaging is due to integration with XChat or other technical or strategic reasons. What do you think about this? Feel free to share your opinions with us in the comments below.