Want to step away from X (formerly Twitter)? Here’s how to delete or deactivate your account while safeguarding your data and privacy.

Why Consider Deleting Your X Account?

X, previously known as Twitter, has undergone significant changes in recent years. From Elon Musk’s controversial leadership decisions to concerns over data privacy and the rise of hate speech, many users are reevaluating their time on the platform. If you’re one of them, deactivating or deleting your X account may be a step toward digital detox or greater online privacy.

Before You Begin: Download All Your X Data

Before you delete your account, take a moment to download your X data. This archive contains all your posts, likes, DMs, and other activity, preserving memories or meaningful contributions you’ve shared.

Steps to Download Your X Data:

1. Log In to X on a Browser: Access your account through a desktop or mobile browser.
2. Go to Settings and Privacy:
   • On desktop, click “More” on the sidebar, then “Settings and Privacy.”
   • On mobile, tap your profile icon and choose “Settings and Privacy.”
3. Navigate to Your Account: Under the “Your Account” section, click “Download an Archive of Your Data.”
4. Confirm Your Password: Enter your account password to proceed.
5. Wait for the File: X will send you an in-app notification once your data is ready for download. This process may take up to 24 hours.

⚠ Important: Do not deactivate your account until your data download is complete.

Should You Fully Delete Your Account?

Deleting your X account permanently erases your username, posts, and activity. However, this comes with risks:

• Username Vulnerability: If you delete your account, your username becomes available for others to claim. This can be problematic if your username is tied to your personal or professional identity.
• Alternative Approach: Instead of fully deleting your account, consider deleting your posts and making your profile private. Tools like Tweet Deleter can help you clean up your account while retaining ownership of your username.

If you’re sure about deleting your account, follow the steps below.

How X Handles Deactivation and Deletion

When you deactivate your account, it becomes inaccessible to others. Your username, profile, and posts will disappear from public view. However, the account isn’t immediately deleted. Instead, X enforces a 30-day deactivation period, during which you can reactivate your account if you change your mind.

After 30 days, your account will be permanently deleted, and recovery will no longer be possible. Be mindful of this timeline as the deletion process is irreversible.

Steps to Deactivate Your X Account

The process for deactivating your account is straightforward and consistent across platforms, whether on desktop or mobile.

On Desktop:

1. Log in to your X account on a browser.
2. Click “More” in the left-side menu, then select “Settings and Privacy.”
3. Go to “Your Account” and scroll down to “Deactivate Your Account.”
4. Follow the on-screen prompts and confirm your password.

On Mobile (iOS or Android):

1. Open the X app and tap your profile icon in the top-left corner.
2. Navigate to “Settings and Privacy.”
3. Select “Your Account” and scroll down to “Deactivate Your Account.”
4. Confirm the deactivation by entering your password.

Post-Deactivation Considerations

• Search Engine Data: Even after deletion, some of your X posts or data may still be stored in search engine caches.
• Account Archive: Ensure your archive request is completed before deactivating, as X’s systems retain data after account deletion.
• 30-Day Grace Period: Reactivate within 30 days if you change your mind. Once this period passes, your account is gone forever.

Tips for a Safe Transition Away From X

1. Clean Up First: If you’re concerned about others misusing your username, delete your posts and make your account private instead of fully deleting it.
2. Inform Your Network: Let your followers know you’re leaving and share alternative ways to stay connected.
3. Explore Alternatives: If you’re leaving X for good, consider exploring other platforms like Mastodon, Threads, or Bluesky.

Conclusion

Deciding to delete your X account is a personal choice that reflects your priorities for privacy, time management, or digital well-being. By following this guide, you can ensure a smooth transition while safeguarding your data.

With clear steps and considerations, you can confidently take control of your online presence and bid farewell to X if that aligns with your goals.

For those ready to make the move, downloading all your X data and understanding the deactivation process ensures you won’t lose anything important during this digital shift.