Update on X sparks outrage over online security

Rival platform Bluesky talks up user protection as concerns over AI training data surface

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Image: Monika Skolimowska via Pexels

Numerous studies point to an increase in online hate speech on X after Elon Musk takes over the platform in 2022. Musk is implementing a controversial update that will allow users to view others’ posts even if they are blocked, a move that he says is long overdue and “makes no sense whatsoever”. This change, however, is strongly disapproved by users.

Concerns have been raised about the potential for more harassment and inconvenience, especially for women who rely on blocking to avoid unwanted attention. Critics claim this update empowers bad actors on social media and undermines user safety.

Bluesky, a rival platform that saw an increase in users following Musk’s acquisition of Twitter, emphasised its commitment to online safety and stressed that users can effectively block individuals to avoid seeing their posts.

Some X users have already received notifications about the imminent update, which clarifies that blocked accounts will be able to view public messages but not interact with them. Users are advised to protect their accounts for more control over message visibility. This latest change follows a series of updates since Musk’s acquisition that have been linked to an increase in online hate speech.

Another upcoming update to X’s terms of service has also prompted reactions. Users expressed frustration over the planned use of their images, videos and audio to train AI models such as Grok, a change that takes effect on 15 November.

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