Threads DMs spark backlash over harassment concerns

Threads’ freshly launched direct messaging tool—hailed by Meta as its most-requested feature—has instead triggered a wave of user backlash. As highlighted in TechCrunch’s deep dive, many users, especially women, worry the update will heighten harassment and spam, with no simple way to opt out.

DMs began rolling out to users earlier this week, giving people the option to send private one-on-one messages right within the Threads app. The inbox is now accessible to those you follow—and only users you follow can initiate a conversation. To remove someone’s ability to DM, you must either unfollow or block them, with blocking also severing connections on Instagram.

Key changes introduced this week include:

One-on-one private DM feature within Threads

Inbox access limited to followed accounts for message initiations

Removal of DM privileges through unfollowing or blocking

No toggle or opt-out for DMs yet available

While this update aligns with Instagram’s roadmap to separate Threads from its parent platform, it directly contradicts Threads’ earlier appeal as a harassment-resistant, open space. Many early adopters preferred Threads precisely because unsolicited DMs were impossible, unlike on X (Twitter), Bluesky, or Mastodon.

The backlash has snowballed: Some users point to polls suggesting an overwhelming number wanted to keep DMs off the platform. Comment sections under the announcement have filled with frustration, with people citing risks of spam, bots, and unwanted outreach—complaints especially common among women and marginalized creators.

Unlike other social networks, where DMs have long been standard, Threads built its initial user culture around public communication. This abrupt shift alters platform dynamics, putting added pressure on individuals concerned about privacy and safety. Many argue that bundling private messaging with following rewards the wrong behavior, since users often follow strangers for content—not conversation.

For creators and small brand marketers, the DM rollout brings both new opportunities and challenges. Direct messaging can strengthen fan connections and unlock informal brand inquiries, but it may also open the floodgates to a deluge of unsolicited pitches, scams, or abuse. A lack of opt-out creates a higher burden for moderation—especially for solo operators and those running sensitive or personal accounts.

For brands used to Instagram’s richer DM controls, the absence of settings or filters on Threads is a significant step backward. Now, unfollowing or blocking is the only defense, and not all creators want to take such a drastic approach to manage their inbox.

If Meta listens to feedback, additional privacy controls could soon appear, restoring some user agency over inbound messages. In the meantime, those seeking more real-time engagement tools might look to innovations like Threads’ trending topic highlights rollout, which lets creators spark public conversations without inviting hidden outreach.

Looking forward, Meta faces a trade-off: grow Threads into a feature-rich platform—risking culture shock for its core users—or focus on safety by letting people opt out of DMs entirely. User requests for robust moderation tools, message filters, or a DM disable toggle have gotten louder as the platform expands.

For now, creators and social marketers should watch for updates to Threads’ controls, educate their communities on reporting and blocking, and weigh whether accepting DMs fits their brand’s engagement goals. The real test will be whether Meta tweaks core features to serve people—not just roll out what looks good on a product roadmap.