Thursday, 3 April 2025
25.7 C
Singapore
28.2 C
Thailand
20.8 C
Indonesia
26.9 C
Philippines

X now lets blocked users view posts despite privacy concerns

X allows blocked users to see posts despite privacy concerns; some users move to safer alternatives like Threads and BlueSky.

Elon Muskโ€™s social media platform, X, has rolled out a controversial change to its block function, sparking privacy and safety concerns among users and experts alike. This update now allows blocked users to see posts from the accounts that have blocked them. However, they cannot interact with those accounts through likes, comments, or messages.

This shift marks a major departure from how the block feature traditionally functioned on X. Previously, it primarily restricted and blocked users from viewing any posts from accounts that chose to block them. The new policy, first announced in September, has been implemented and is stirring debate on its potential impacts.

How the new block function works

Under this revised block system, users who have been blocked can now view posts from accounts that chose to block them. For example, a user blocked by a public figure or a well-known account can still see that accountโ€™s posts, though they remain unable to engage directly. X displays a message below such posts, informing the blocked viewer, โ€œYou can view public posts from this account, but you are blocked from engaging with them. You also cannot follow or message this account.โ€ Before this update, blocked users were shown a generic โ€œYouโ€™re blockedโ€ message and were restricted from viewing any content from the blocking account.

X justifies this change by stating that it reflects what users can already do by switching to a different account that hasnโ€™t been blocked. Additionally, X claims that the previous blocking version could be misused to share and conceal sensitive information about users. The company describes the update as a step towards โ€œgreater transparencyโ€ on the platform, though all have not received this transparency.

Backlash from experts and users

The response to Xโ€™s update has been critical, particularly from experts focusing on social media safety and abuse. Many argue that the change caters to stalkers and trolls, undermining the security of users who rely on the block feature to protect themselves from online harassment.

Claire Waxman, Londonโ€™s Victimsโ€™ Commissioner, was outspoken in her criticism, calling the update a โ€œdangerous decisionโ€ that may put vulnerable individuals at risk. Waxman voiced her concerns on social media, writing, โ€œEnabling blocked users to see posts is catering to abusers and stalkers, indulging and facilitating their behaviours.โ€ Numerous users have echoed this sentiment, who feel that the platformโ€™s new approach to blocking could make it more challenging to maintain a safe online space.

In addition to these safety concerns, some users are pointing out that Xโ€™s new block function may conflict with guidelines set by major app stores. Appleโ€™s App Store, for example, mandates that apps with user-generated content must provide users the ability to โ€œblock abusive users from the service.โ€ Although X has retained the blocking feature in a limited form, it remains uncertain whether Apple or Google will take action in response to the platformโ€™s adjusted approach to blocking.

Users migrate to alternative platforms

As X continues to make changes that many users find troubling, some are turning to alternative social media platforms. Platforms like BlueSky and Threads have gained popularity as users seek safer, more privacy-conscious spaces for social media interactions. Threads, the text-based app developed by Instagramโ€™s parent company Meta, reported today that it has reached 275 million monthly active users, a milestone that reflects an increase of 75 million users over the past three months alone.

For many users, the appeal of platforms like Threads and BlueSky lies in their commitment to offering stronger user controls and maintaining more traditional approaches to features like blocking. As X progresses with its updated block function, it may lose users who prioritise privacy and safety in their social media experiences.

This latest update is part of Elon Muskโ€™s ongoing efforts to reshape X into a platform with fewer restrictions and more open sharing. However, whether the new blocking policy will achieve Muskโ€™s vision of transparency remains in question, especially as experts and users continue to voice concerns over the potential risks to personal safety.

Hot this week

These robot vacuums are getting smarter with Apple Home support

Appleโ€™s iOS 18.4 update adds Matter support for robot vacuums, enabling control via Apple Home. Roborock, iRobot, and Ecovacs are updating their devices.

Chinese EV makers urged to expand globally despite tariff challenges

Chinese EV makers are urged to expand globally despite rising tariffs. Industry experts stress the need for overseas production and strategic partnerships.

Uwant D500 Pro Wet and Dry Vacuum Cleaner review: Designed for comfort and ease of use

The Uwant D500 Pro Wet and Dry Vacuum Cleaner offers powerful suction, real-time sterilisation, and ergonomic design for effortless cleaning. With self-cleaning, AI-powered drying, and intuitive controls, it ensures a seamless, low-maintenance experience for modern homes.

Microsoft removes Windows 11 loophole for skipping account setup

Microsoft is blocking a well-known workaround that lets you set up Windows 11 without a Microsoft account, enforcing stricter installation rules.

NTT DATA partners with UPS on 10-year digital transformation deal

NTT DATA signs 10-year deal with UPS to modernise IT infrastructure, support AI innovation, and manage data centre operations.

Qualcomm expands AI research with MovianAI acquisition

Qualcomm has acquired Vietnamese AI research firm MovianAI to boost its AI development in smartphones, PCs, and software-defined vehicles.

Roblox introduces new parental controls to enhance child safety

Roblox introduces new parental controls, allowing parents to block games, restrict friends, and monitor their childโ€™s activity for better safety.

Anthropic introduces Claude for Education, a new AI chatbot plan for universities

Anthropic launches Claude for Education, an AI chatbot plan for universities that offers advanced learning tools and administration support.

Exabeam introduces Nova, an agentic AI that boosts cybersecurity operations

Exabeam unveils Nova, a proactive AI agent that boosts security team productivity and reduces incident investigation time by over 50%.

Related Articles