How Can I Make My Threads Account Private?
- Epic Tech Tips
- Nov 5
- 4 min read
A Threads account is often used to share personal thoughts, photos, or updates with friends. But not everyone wants their posts to be visible to the public. Making a Threads account private adds a layer of protection and helps users control who sees their content. This guide explains how to switch a Threads profile to private on both computer and mobile devices in clear and simple steps.
A private profile ensures only approved followers can view posts, replies, and future activity. This is a smart move for anyone who values privacy or wants a safer online experience.
TL;DR
To make a Threads account private, go to your Profile → Menu → Privacy → Private Profile and turn on the switch (mobile). On a computer, open threads.com → Profile → Menu (two horizontal lines) → Settings → Privacy → Private Profile and enable it. A private account means only approved followers can see posts and activity. This gives better control, reduces unwanted interactions, and keeps personal content protected.
Understanding What a Private Threads Account Means
A private Threads account limits who can view your posts, replies, and followers list. When someone wants to follow you, they must send a request. You can choose to approve or ignore these requests.
This is helpful for users who want to post personal content or avoid unwanted attention. A private account still allows you to enjoy all major features, such as posting text updates, sharing media, and interacting with others you follow.
However, your posts will not appear on public search results or explore pages. Only followers you approve can see new content.
How to Make Threads Account Private on Mobile App (Android & iOS)
The Threads mobile app gives a simple way to switch to a private account. Users can change this setting anytime.
Follow these steps:
Open the Threads app on the mobile device.
Tap the Profile icon in the bottom right corner.
Press the Menu (two horizontal lines) at the top right.
Select Privacy.
Tap Private Profile.
Toggle the switch to turn on the private mode.
Once activated, only approved followers will see posts and comments. Your replies will be visible to followers and individual profiles you reply to. Anyone who tries to follow will send a request, and the user can accept or decline.
How to Make Threads Account Private on Computer (Browser)
Threads can also be accessed through a web browser, which is helpful for users who prefer desktop control.
Steps to make the account private on computer:
Visit threads.com and log into the account.
Click the Menu (two horizontal lines) at the bottom left corner.
Select Settings at the top side menu.
Click Privacy.
Tap Private Profile.
Toggle the switch to turn on the private mode.
After switching, the profile becomes private across all devices instantly.
What Happens When You Make Your Threads Account Private?
When you switch to a private Threads account, your current followers will stay unless you remove them. Anyone new who wants to follow you must request access. They cannot see your posts or replies until you approve them.
Below is a simple table that explains what changes:
Feature | Public Account | Private Account |
Anyone can view posts | Yes | No |
Must approve new followers | No | Yes |
Posts shown in public search results | Yes | No |
Followers remain after switching | Not affected | Not affected |
This helps you understand exactly how privacy affects your visibility and control.
When Should You Make Your Threads Account Private?
A private account is helpful if you share personal opinions, daily activities, or pictures meant only for trusted followers. It also helps prevent spam or unwanted messages. Many users choose privacy to maintain a positive and comfortable social media experience.
On the other hand, if you are a brand, influencer, or public speaker looking to grow your audience, staying public may help more people find you. It depends on your goals and comfort level.
Turning Private Mode Off
If someone wants to return to a public profile in the future, they can repeat the same steps and switch the toggle off. The change is instant.
However, once switched back to public, all posts become visible to everyone again. Followers cannot be restricted unless manually removed.
Final Thoughts
Making a Threads account private is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect personal content. Whether using a phone or computer, the steps are straightforward and take only seconds.
A private profile gives users the power to choose who sees their posts and who interacts with them.
This level of control helps create a safer and more comfortable online experience, something everyone can appreciate.
FAQs
Can I switch my Threads account from public to private anytime?
Yes, you can switch between public and private at any time through the privacy settings.
Do my existing followers get removed when I go private?
No, all current followers stay unless you manually remove them.
Will people know if I remove them as a follower?
No, Threads does not notify users when they are removed.
Can I still share posts publicly after making my account private?
Yes, but only if you switch back to public or manually share posts elsewhere.
Does making my Threads account private affect my Instagram account?
No, privacy settings apply separately, even though Threads is linked to Instagram.
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