X to introduce controversial update allowing blocked users to view posts
Elon Musk, the billionaire owner of the social media platform X, has announced a long-feared change that will now enable users to view posts of individuals who have blocked them. The update, which Musk claims is long overdue, has sparked criticism and concern among users.
Many users have expressed discomfort over the idea that individuals they have blocked, often for valid reasons such as harassment or stalking, will now have access to their posts. Some fear that this change will empower ‘creeps’ and ‘weirdos’ to continue their unwanted interactions on the platform, leading to a potential increase in online harassment.
In response to this update, rival social media platform Bluesky has taken the opportunity to highlight their commitment to online safety. Bluesky emphasised that their block button remains a vital tool for users to prevent unwanted individuals from viewing their posts, thereby allowing users to customise their experience and maintain control over their privacy.
Users of X have reported receiving pop-up messages notifying them of the upcoming change regarding blocked users being able to view posts. The message explains that while blocked accounts will be able to see public posts, they will not be able to engage with them. Users are advised to protect their accounts for more control over who can see their posts.
This controversial update is just one of many changes introduced to X following Musk’s acquisition of the platform. Studies conducted by various organisations have indicated a disturbing increase in online hate speech on the platform since Musk took over. Incidents of racist slurs, anti-Semitic posts, Islamophobia, misinformation, and anti-LGBT rhetoric have all reportedly surged, raising concerns about the platform’s safety and impact on vulnerable communities.
Additionally, an upcoming update to X’s Terms of Service, set to take effect on 15th November, has incited further backlash from users. Many are unhappy about the platform’s decision to use their images, videos, and audio to train AI models, such as Grok, without their explicit consent.
As X continues to implement changes under Musk’s leadership, users and advocacy groups alike are calling for greater transparency, accountability, and measures to address the proliferation of harmful content on the platform.
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