Are you tired of unwanted video calls on Instagram while you’re just trying to scroll or message in peace? Instagram’s video calling feature can often feel intrusive, but don’t worry; you can take control.
Our article shows you exactly “How to turn off video calls on Instagram?” to reclaim your privacy, set your boundaries, and use the app on your terms because you deserve it. Take control of your experience today. Read the complete guide now and, start protecting your space instantly and turn off the calling feature in Instagram settings.
Step-by-Step Guide to Turn Off Video Calls on Instagram in 2026
Instagram is an excellent platform for connecting with friends, followers, and brands, but not everyone wants to be bombarded with unexpected video calls. If you’re ready to set clear boundaries over who can reach you, here’s how to manage and turn off Instagram video calls effectively.
· Block the User (Complete Prevention)
If you’re dealing with repeated or harassing video calls on Instagram, the simplest and most effective way to stop them is to block the caller.
You can stop unwanted calls on Instagram by blocking them to ensure they can no longer contact you or send intrusive calls, giving you peace of mind and control over your interactions.
- Go to the user’s profile.
- Tap the three-dot menu (⋯) in the top right corner.
- Select “Block”.
Once you turn off Instagram video calls by blocking, that person won’t be able to send messages, see your content, or video call you again.
· Mute Video Call Notifications (Silence the Call Alerts)
If you don’t want to block someone but still want peace, muting is an excellent choice. Muting doesn’t stop them from calling, but you won’t be notified when they do. This is best for avoiding call alerts.
- Open your chat with the person.
- Tap the (i) info icon in the top-right corner.
- Toggle on Mute call notifications (or “Mute messages and calls”).
You’ll still receive calls and messages in your inbox but without disruptive sounds or pop-ups when you turn off Instagram video calls by muting.
· Restrict the Person (Soft Block Option)
Instagram’s “Restrict” feature gives you more control over your interactions without having to block someone directly. This is most effective for controlling interactions subtly without alerting the user. When you restrict video calls on Instagram:
- Their messages go to your Message Requests instead of your primary inbox.
- You won’t receive notifications for their messages or calls.
- They can’t see your activity status or if you’ve read their messages.
How to Restrict Someone:
- Go to their profile → Tap the three dots (⋯) → Select “Restrict.”
· Adjust Your Privacy Settings (Limit Who Can Call You)
Ideal for filtering messages and calls from strangers, adjusting your privacy settings lets you control who can message or call you on Instagram, even though you can’t altogether disable video calls.
- Go to your profile.
- Tap the menu (≡) → Settings → Privacy → Messages.
- Under “Who can message you,” choose:
- Only people you follow
- Friends (Facebook connections)
- No one (for connected apps)
This filters message requests and reduces who can start calls as another method to turn off Instagram video calls.
Note: The method above doesn’t stop people you’ve already messaged from calling you.
· Revoke Camera Permissions (Limit Video Access)
Perfect for preventing accidental video sharing during calls, this method ensures Instagram can’t access your camera during unwanted video calls.
- On Android: Go to Settings → Apps → Instagram → Permissions → Camera → Deny.
- On iOS: Open Settings → Scroll to Instagram → Toggle off Camera
This won’t stop calls from happening but ensures your camera won’t work if you accidentally accept one.
· Just Ignore the Instagram Call (Low-Effort Option)
If the problem isn’t constant and you don’t want to change settings or block someone, let the call ring without answering. The caller won’t get confirmation that you’ve seen it, especially if they’re not close contacts.
While not a long-term fix, this is the simplest way to avoid giving attention to someone and is best for occasional spam calls.
Tips for Staying Safe and Comfortable on Instagram
To keep your Instagram experience peaceful and secure beyond video call settings, consider these steps that help you turn off Instagram video calls:
- Review Your Followers Regularly: Remove anyone you don’t know or trust to maintain control over who sees your content.
- Set Your Profile to Private: Limit your visibility to only approved followers, reducing unwanted contact.
- Avoid Sharing Sensitive Information: Don’t post personal details or your exact location in stories or posts.
- Use “Close Friends” Lists: Share private or sensitive content only with a select group you trust.
- Stay Updated on Privacy Features: Instagram often adds new tools; make sure to explore and use them to your advantage.
- Be Cautious with New Contacts: Don’t accept message requests or calls from unknown users without verifying them first.
Summary Table for Ways to Turn Off or Control Instagram Video Calls
| Method | What It Does | Effect on Video Calls | Best For |
| Block the User | Completely prevents the user from contacting you | Stops all calls, messages, and profile access | Persistent harassment or spam |
| Mute Call Notifications | Silences incoming call alerts without stopping the call itself | The call still comes through, but there is no sound or notification | Avoiding distractions from select users |
| Restrict the User | Sends messages to “Message Requests” and hides activity status | You won’t be alerted to calls; they won’t know you saw them | Soft-blocking without confrontation |
| Adjust Privacy Settings | Limits on who can message or call you based on relationship filters | Reduces calls from unknown users or strangers | General control over contacts |
| Revoke Camera Permissions | Disables Instagram’s access to your device camera | The call may still occur, but they won’t see you on video | Preventing accidental video display |
| Ignore the Call | Letting it ring without answering | Caller sees no response; you retain privacy | One-time or rare unwanted calls |
Wrap-Up
Your Instagram experience should feel safe and under your control. Taking steps to manage video calls helps protect your peace and privacy. Remember, setting boundaries online isn’t just a choice; it’s your right. Make your choices confidently and enjoy the app on your terms.
What’s your biggest frustration with “How to turn off video calls on Instagram?” Have you tried any tricks that worked for you? Share your experience below!
Can I turn off video calls on Instagram?
You can’t fully turn off video calls, but you can block users, mute notifications, or restrict who can call you to stop unwanted video calls effectively.
How do I turn off Instagram video calls on iPhone or Android?
Adjust your device’s Instagram permissions to limit camera access and reduce unwanted video calls.
How do I change my video call settings?
You can customize who reaches you by exploring Instagram’s privacy and messaging options.
How do I mute a video call on Instagram?
You can quiet call alerts by adjusting the Instagram notification settings within your conversation with that person.
Why Instagram video call settings is not working?
When usual adjustments don’t take effect, exploring stronger limits on interactions or app permissions might help reduce interruptions.
