X to Remove Block Button: Public Posts Will Soon Be

September 26, 2024 22

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X (formerly known as Twitter) is once again making waves with its latest changes to the block button, and users are sounding the alarm over safety concerns. CEO Elon Musk confirmed that moving forward, all public posts will be viewable, even to those who have been blocked. The news was first reported by Nima Owji, with Musk adding, “High time this happened. The block function will block that account from engaging with, but not block seeing, public posts.”

The announcement has left many users worried about the implications of the change. For years, the block button has served as a critical tool for users to protect themselves from harassment and unwanted interactions on the platform. The prospect of blocked accounts still being able to view public posts has sparked concern that it will be more difficult than ever to avoid unwanted attention.

Musk’s distaste for the block button is no secret. In 2023, he declared his intention to remove the feature entirely, except for direct messages, calling it nonsensical. At the time, users pushed back with a note that read, “Blocking is a basic safety feature that allows basic protection for victims of abuse and stalking. Removing this feature would compromise the safety of many people on social media.”

The upcoming changes have reignited these fears, with many questioning Musk’s motives behind the move. Critics argue that allowing blocked users to still view public posts could exacerbate issues of harassment and make the platform less safe for vulnerable users.

As X continues to roll out controversial updates, it remains to be seen how this change will impact user safety and overall platform dynamics. For now, many users are left wondering whether their online safety and peace of mind will be compromised in the name of “openness” and visibility.