Sun Oct 20 08:10:00 UTC 2024: X, formerly known as Twitter, is set to implement a controversial change to its block feature, allowing users who are blocked to continue viewing posts from those who blocked them. Key points from the article include:
1. **Change Overview**: The new policy will let accounts with public profiles see posts from users who have blocked them, although they will still be unable to engage (like, reply, or repost) with those posts.
2. **Rationale**: X claims this change promotes “greater transparency,” enabling users to see if blocked individuals are sharing harmful or private information about them.
3. **User Backlash**: The update has faced significant criticism, as many users feel it renders the block function “essentially useless” and may empower stalkers or harassers, as blocked users can still publicly screenshot and share what they see.
4. **Context of Change**: Elon Musk, who owns X, previously hinted at potentially removing the block feature entirely but has since moderated that stance. He argues that blocking posts makes “no sense” and may lead to a stronger mute option instead.
5. **Comparison with Other Platforms**: The backlash has prompted rival social media platform Bluesky to highlight its own stronger block and anti-harassment features.
6. **Implications**: This move is part of a larger trend of changes Musk has made since acquiring X, which include subscription models and relaxed content moderation—changes that have also triggered user dissatisfaction.
Overall, the modification of the block function has reignited concerns about user safety and harassment on the platform.
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