In recent years, Facebook Messenger has evolved from a simple texting tool into a full-scale communication platform complete with audio calls, video calls, group calling, and even screen sharing. But with those features came something else: unwanted video calls.
Whether it’s spam callers, persistent strangers, or simply too many interruptions during the day, millions of users now search for ways to turn off video calls on Facebook Messenger. The good news? It’s absolutely possible, and there are several ways to do it.
This guide walks you through every effective method from disabling call notifications to restricting who can contact you. Written in a clear, news-style tone, this article explains what, why, and how Messenger’s call settings work, along with the steps to take back your privacy.
What Does “Turning Off Video Calls” on Messenger Actually Mean?
Messenger does not currently allow a single toggle that says “Disable all video calls.”
But you can still effectively block or disable video calling by adjusting certain settings:
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Turning off Messenger call notifications
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Restricting people from contacting you
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Using Do Not Disturb mode
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Blocking a specific person
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Switching to Facebook’s privacy settings to limit who can message or call
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Using “Quiet Mode” in Facebook
Each of these options ensures fewer interruptions and a more peaceful online experience.
Why You Might Want to Turn Off Video Calls
A growing number of users report frustrations such as:
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Spam calls from unknown accounts
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Random video call attempts from strangers
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Interruptions during work or study
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Privacy concerns, especially for kids and teens
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Unwanted personal contact from certain people
According to digital privacy experts, unsolicited video calls have become one of the top annoyances on social messaging apps. For anyone who values peace of mind or privacy, disabling video calls is a solid step.
How to Turn Off Video Calls on Facebook Messenger (All Working Methods)
Below are all the best and most effective options to block or disable video call interruptions.
1. Turn Off Video Call Notifications (Android & iPhone)
The simplest and quickest fix.
Even if video calling can’t be fully “disabled,” turning off the notifications prevents your device from ringing or showing call pop-ups.
Steps (Android):
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Open the Messenger app
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Tap your profile picture (top-left)
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Scroll to Notifications & sounds
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Turn off:
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Calls
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Vibration
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Ringtone notifications
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Optionally: Turn on Do Not Disturb
Steps (iPhone):
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Open Settings
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Scroll to Messenger
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Tap Notifications
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Disable toggles for:
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Sounds
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Alerts
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Banners
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You can also turn off Allow Notifications
Result:
People can still attempt video calls but your device will never ring, vibrate, or light up.
2. Use Facebook’s “Message Delivery” Settings to Stop Video Callers
This is a powerful setting that controls who can message or call you on Messenger.
Steps (for all devices):
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Open the Facebook app
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Tap Menu (three lines)
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Go to Settings & privacy
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Tap Settings
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Choose Privacy → Message delivery
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Customize who can call or message you:
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Friends
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Friends of friends
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People on Instagram
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Others on Facebook
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Set unwanted categories to:
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“Don’t receive requests”
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or “Message requests” (so calls won’t ring)
This is the most reliable way to stop strangers from video calling you.
3. Turn On Facebook’s “Quiet Mode” to Block Calls Automatically
Quiet Mode silences all Messenger notifications, including video calls.
Steps:
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Open Facebook
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Go to Settings & privacy
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Tap Your Time on Facebook
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Select Quiet Mode
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Turn it on or set a schedule (e.g., during work or sleep hours)
4. Use Do Not Disturb Mode (iPhone & Android)
If you only need a break from calls for a while:
iPhone:
Swipe down → Tap Focus → Do Not Disturb
Android:
Swipe down → Tap the DND icon or:
Settings → Notifications → Do Not Disturb
Messenger won’t ring even if calls come in.
5. Block a Specific Person From Video Calling You
If the problem is just one person, blocking is the fastest way to stop video calls.
Steps:
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Open Messenger
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Open the chat of the person
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Tap their name
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Scroll and choose Block
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Select Block Calls or Block Messages & Calls
6. Log Out or Uninstall Messenger (Extreme Option)
Some users choose to uninstall Messenger and use the Facebook Lite app or browser version, which does not support video calls.
FAQs
1. Can you permanently turn off video calls on Messenger?
Not with a single switch, but you can disable notifications, block people, or restrict who can contact you.
2. Will people know if I turned off video call notifications?
No. The caller sees it as a “missed call” or “call not answered.”
3. Can I stop video calls from strangers only?
Yes change your Message Delivery settings.
4. Does blocking someone stop audio calls too?
Yes. Blocks apply to all calling features.
5. Does Quiet Mode stop calls?
Yes it silences all Facebook and Messenger notifications.
Conclusion
Unwanted video calls can be annoying, intrusive, and stressful. Whether you’re trying to focus, avoid spam, or simply protect your personal space, Messenger gives you multiple tools to control who can reach you and how.
By adjusting your notification settings, using message delivery controls, turning on Quiet Mode, or blocking specific people, you can effectively turn off video calls on Facebook Messenger and enjoy a more peaceful digital life.
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