In an unexpected shift, X (formerly known as Twitter) has overhauled its block feature, redefining what user privacy means on the platform. This update is a significant departure from established norms, allowing blocked users to view posts from accounts that have blocked them—though without interaction rights. This move has sparked a wide-ranging discussion about digital privacy, control over personal content, and the implications for user safety in the evolving landscape of social media.
Key Changes to the Block Feature
The latest update from X removes certain visibility restrictions typically associated with blocking. While blocked accounts remain unable to engage—no replies, likes, or retweets—the change grants them access to the content posted by the accounts that blocked them, provided these accounts are set to public. This nuanced adjustment shifts the platform’s approach to visibility, straying from the all-or-nothing model traditionally found across major social platforms.
"Soon we’ll be launching a change to how the block function works. If your posts are set to public, accounts you have blocked will be able to view them, but they will not be able to engage (like, reply, repost, etc.)."
— Engineering (@XEng), October 16, 2024
Privacy Advocates Sound the Alarm
This change has not gone unnoticed. Privacy and security advocates express concern that X’s new block functionality could increase exposure to unwanted viewers, including potential stalkers or harassers. For many users, especially those who experience online harassment, blocking has been a critical tool to prevent further contact. Now, with the visibility restriction lifted, these users are faced with difficult choices: they may need to weigh the benefits of maintaining a public platform presence against potential risks to their privacy and safety.
User and Community Reactions
The user community has reacted strongly to this update, expressing several key concerns:
Reduced Control Over Visibility: The change takes away users’ ability to fully limit access to their posts.
Increased Risk of Passive Harassment: By granting viewing access without interaction, blocked accounts can still “monitor” posts, potentially enabling passive harassment.
Pressure to Switch to Private Accounts: Some users may feel forced to make their accounts private for safety, reducing their public visibility.
Limited Tools for Managing Unwanted Attention: The new model restricts options for avoiding unwanted attention, causing some to reconsider their platform usage.
Broader Implications
This shift may have wider effects on:
Content Creator Safety: Public figures and influencers, often reliant on broad visibility, may need to reassess their strategies with this increased exposure.
User Behavior Patterns: Some may become more cautious in sharing personal information, which could impact public discussions on the platform.
Industry Standards: Other platforms will closely observe the effects of this new policy to evaluate whether a similar model might be feasible.
X's Perspective
X defends this change as a step toward reducing information silos and fostering open dialogue. According to X, this increased transparency encourages a more inclusive exchange of ideas while still prioritizing user safety.
