How to turn off read receipts on iMessage

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To turn off read receipts on iMessage, navigate to Settings > Messages and toggle off the 'Send Read Receipts' option. This will prevent others from seeing when you've read their messages.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before you begin, ensure you have the following:
  • •An Apple device running iOS 10 or later.
  • •Access to the device's Settings app.
  • •An active internet connection (optional, but recommended for updates).
  • •No restrictions set on iMessage in Screen Time settings.

Method 1: Turning Off Read Receipts via Settings

This is the primary method to disable read receipts directly through the iMessage settings.
  • •Step 1: Open the 'Settings' app on your iPhone or iPad.
  • •Step 2: Scroll down and tap on 'Messages'.
  • •Step 3: Locate the 'Send Read Receipts' toggle switch.
  • •Step 4: Tap the switch to turn it off (it should turn gray).
  • •Step 5: To verify, send a message to a contact who has read receipts enabled; they should not see a 'Read' notification.
  • •Step 6: If it doesn't work, ensure your device is updated to the latest iOS version.

For iOS 15 and Later

iOS 15 introduced some changes in the Messages app interface.
  • •Step 1: Open 'Settings'.
  • •Step 2: Tap on 'Messages'.
  • •Step 3: Find 'Send Read Receipts' and toggle it off.
  • •Step 4: Confirm by checking the toggle's color.

For iOS 14 and Earlier

The steps are similar but the interface may slightly differ.
  • •Step 1: Open 'Settings'.
  • •Step 2: Scroll to 'Messages'.
  • •Step 3: Toggle 'Send Read Receipts' off.
  • •Step 4: Confirm the toggle is gray.

Method 2: Disabling Read Receipts for Individual Contacts

If you prefer to keep read receipts on for most contacts but disable them for specific ones, follow these steps:
  • •Step 1: Open the 'Messages' app.
  • •Step 2: Select the conversation with the contact you want to adjust.
  • •Step 3: Tap on the contact's name or number at the top of the screen.
  • •Step 4: Tap 'Info' (the 'i' icon).
  • •Step 5: Toggle off 'Send Read Receipts' for this specific contact.
  • •Step 6: To verify, send a message and check if the contact sees a 'Read' notification.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter problems while trying to disable read receipts, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Send Read Receipts' option is grayed out - Solution: Check if Screen Time restrictions are enabled. Go to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions and adjust settings.
  • •Issue: Changes not reflecting - Fix: Restart your device to ensure settings are applied.
  • •Problem: Read receipts still sent - Workaround: Ensure you are not using a third-party messaging app that overrides iMessage settings.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

For power users, here are some additional tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: No specific keyboard shortcuts for iMessage settings, but using Siri to toggle settings can save time.
  • •Command line: Not applicable for iMessage settings.
  • •Hidden feature: Use 'Do Not Disturb' mode to silence notifications temporarily without affecting read receipts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For optimal privacy, regularly review your messaging settings and consider disabling read receipts for all contacts.