Snapchat is known for its fun filters, disappearing messages, and interactive interface. One feature that often confuses users is the appearance of different icons next to friends’ names, especially the grey X. If you’ve recently seen a grey “X” next to someone’s name on Snapchat, you may be wondering what it means and how to deal with it.
Let’s break it down simply so you can understand what’s going on and what actions you can take.
Also Read: How to See Deleted Messages on WhatsApp
Where Do You See the Grey X Icon on Snapchat?
You’ll typically notice this grey “X” icon next to a name in your Chat tab. It replaces the camera icon that normally appears next to a friend’s name. If you tap the “X,” Snapchat may offer you options like:
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Report
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Block
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Clear Conversation
But what causes this icon to appear? There are a few reasons behind it.
1. They Removed You from Their Friends List
One of the most common reasons for the appearance of the grey X is that the other person has removed you as a friend on Snapchat.
Here’s what happens:
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You’re no longer connected as mutual friends.
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The camera icon disappears.
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The grey X replaces it, signaling that the connection has changed.
Even though they removed you, you might still be able to send messages, but your snaps may not be delivered unless they re-add you.
2. You Removed Them from Your Friends List
Another possible reason is that you may have accidentally or intentionally removed them from your friends list.
You might have:
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Hit “Remove Friend” while managing your contacts.
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Cleared the chat and removed them during cleanup.
As a result, Snapchat no longer considers you both as friends, and the grey X will appear instead of the camera.
3. They Blocked You on Snapchat
The grey X icon can also appear if the other user has blocked you.
If this happens:
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You can no longer send snaps or messages to them.
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The messages you do send will stay undelivered.
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You won’t be able to view their profile, Snapscore, or stories.
Blocking is a stronger action than simply removing a friend. It completely cuts off interaction from both ends.
How to Know What Exactly Happened
Not sure whether you removed them, they removed you, or if you’re blocked? Here are a few ways to investigate:
✅ Open the Chat
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If you see an “Add” button at the top, it means you are not friends anymore.
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If you didn’t remove them, then they likely removed or blocked you.
✅ Check Their Bitmoji or Profile Icon
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If it shows a blue “Add” icon, you’re not on their friend list.
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If it shows a user icon with a blue checkmark, they have removed you.
✅ Go to Your Friends List
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Open your profile.
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Tap on “My Friends.”
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Search for their name.
If you don’t see their profile, either you removed them or they removed/blocked you.
What Happens When You Tap the Grey X Icon?
When you tap the grey X, Snapchat gives you options:
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Report – In case someone is violating community rules.
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Block – To stop all communication and hide your content from them.
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Clear Conversation – To remove the chat from your list (but it doesn’t delete the chat from their side).
These options confirm that your connection is no longer active.
How to Remove the Grey X Icon
If you want to get rid of the grey X, here’s what you need to do:
✅ Re-add Them as a Friend
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Open their chat.
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Tap the “Add” button at the top.
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Once they accept, the grey X will disappear and the regular camera icon will return.
✅ Ask Them to Add You Back
If they removed or blocked you, simply ask them (outside of Snapchat) to re-add you if they’re open to reconnecting.
✅ Wait It Out
Sometimes people clean up their friend list temporarily. If it’s someone you regularly talk to, they might add you back soon.
What If You See the Grey X But You’re Still Friends?
On rare occasions, Snapchat may show the grey X due to a glitch or network error. If you’re confident you’re still friends:
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Try restarting the app.
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Update Snapchat to the latest version.
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Clear cache from app settings.
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Log out and log back in.
If none of these work, it’s worth confirming from the other person’s end whether you’re still connected.
Key Takeaways
Let’s summarize what the grey X means on Snapchat:
| Reason | What It Means |
|---|---|
| They Removed You | You’re not on their friends list anymore. |
| You Removed Them | You no longer follow them. |
| They Blocked You | All communication is restricted. |
| You’re Not Friends Yet | You haven’t added each other yet. |
| Temporary Glitch | It might be a technical issue. |
Final Thoughts
Snapchat’s unique icons and features can sometimes be confusing. But if you see a grey X next to someone’s name, it’s usually a sign that your connection has changed. Whether it’s a removal, a block, or just a temporary glitch, now you know how to check what’s going on—and how to fix it if needed.
Still have questions or want to read more Snapchat tips? Drop your topic idea, and I’ll be happy to help!