Twitter update allows direct messages from any follower

WASHINGTON – Twitter is changing one of the ways users communicate, rolling out an option that loosens restrictions on direct messages, the Twitter-equivalent to email.

Until now, two Twitter users had to follow each other, before they could privately exchange a 140-character-or-less message.

Twitter is gradually introducing a new feature that lets users opt-in to receiving DMs from any follower.

According to The Verge the following option can be enabled, on the main settings page at Twitter.com.

Generally, you must follow someone before they have the ability to direct message you. If you check this option, any Twitter user that follows you will be able to send you a DM, regardless of whether you decide to follow them back.

Some might choose to not opt-in to the option, because it would open the user to spam from followers.

The feature is being introduced gradually, so will not currently be available on all users’ accounts.

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