TechPression

Tag: Twitter

  • New block function on X raises stalking and harassment concerns

    New block function on X raises stalking and harassment concerns

    People may now view your public posts even if you have blocked them, thanks to X’s controversial change to the block mechanism. Some have protested this change, saying that they are concerned about their safety and don’t want their posts to be viewed by barred users.

    New block function on X raises stalking and harassment concerns

    A new feature is brewing controversy on X where users can now view the public posts of accounts that blocked them. Some users objected to the adjustment, asserting the feature encouraged stalkers and made them uneasy.

    Read also: X’s controversial update: Blocked users can now see your public posts

    Blocked users can still not send direct messages, interact with posts, or follow the account that blocked them. Although the limitation offers partial privacy, it fails to address the pressing issue of visibility.

    Changes to user privacy settings on X

    According to an outdated version of X’s help website, blocked users could not view a user’s lists of followers and follow. However, after the company removed references to restricted visibility on its help page, users may now view these lists even if they’ve been blocked. This shift has led to confusion and privacy concerns among users.

    According to X, the new version of the block function aims to increase transparency, allowing users to communicate and conceal private or sensitive information if needed. But given that X also provides options for making accounts private, critics argue that the feature be revised to protect user safety and privacy.

    Read also: How to edit your DMs on X: A step-by-step guide

    Concerns over harassment and stalking risks

    When X revealed its plan to redesign the block function, many worried it would increase stalking and harassment, posing potential risks for users relying on traditional block functions for privacy. The change undermines the purpose of blocking, which has long been a tool to prevent unwanted contact and visibility.

    Tracy Chou, a tech diversity advocate and software developer, built an app that allows users to automate banning. She claims that creating friction is essential, even though users may circumvent the block by creating new accounts. 

    “Making it easy for the creeper to creep is not a good thing,” she said in a post on X last month.

  • X’s controversial update: Blocked users can now see your public posts

    X’s controversial update: Blocked users can now see your public posts

    Elon Musk’s social media platform, X (formerly Twitter), is set to implement a controversial change that will allow users you’ve blocked to see your public posts.

    This update, announced on September 23, 2024, has sparked significant debate regarding user control and privacy on the platform.

    Read also: Top countries with highest TikTok users in Africa

    New visibility for blocked X users

    Under the new policy, blocked users can still not interact with your posts, but they can now see your public content. Musk mentioned that while the block function will stop the blocked account from engaging with you, it won’t prevent them from viewing your public posts.

    In the past, if a user tried to check the profile of someone who had blocked them, they would receive a notification stating they were blocked, along with limitations on viewing replies, media, and follower lists.

    Musk and his team justify this change as a way to improve transparency on the platform. A source from X pointed out that individuals could view posts from blocked accounts by logging out or using different accounts. Thus, the update seeks to align the blocking feature with how users behave on social media.

    Public reactions and concerns

    The announcement has sparked mixed reactions. Supporters believe this change could stop users from bypassing blocks with alternative accounts and encourage accountability. On the other hand, critics worry that allowing blocked users to see posts might lead to harassment or stalking, especially for those who rely on blocking to shield themselves from unwanted interactions.

    Musk’s long-standing criticism of the block feature is well-known; he has previously called it nonsensical and suggested replacing it with a more effective mute option. He has even hinted at removing the block feature entirely in favour of direct message controls.

    Read also: Telegram bows to pressure and agrees to release users’ data to authorities

    Implications for X users

    As X continues to change under Musk’s leadership, this latest update raises significant questions about user experience and safety.

    While it aims to foster a more open communication platform, it also challenges conventional ideas of privacy and control over personal content. Users may need to rethink their approaches to managing interactions on X as these changes take effect.

  • How to edit your DMs on X: A step-by-step guide

    How to edit your DMs on X: A step-by-step guide

    X, previously known as Twitter, has introduced a feature that allows users to edit their Direct Messages (DMs). This new capability provides a way to correct mistakes, update information, or clarify messages after they have been sent. Here’s how you can use this feature effectively.

    Read also: Instagram launches Creator Lab to empower Gen Z users

    Why edit your DMs?

    Editing your DMs helps correct errors, such as typos, or updating details after a message has been sent. Before this feature, users had to delete and resend messages to make corrections, which often disrupted the flow of conversation. The ability to edit DMs simplifies the process and ensures smoother communication.

    How to edit your DMs on X

    To edit a DM on X, start by opening the conversation containing the message you want to edit. Then, tap and hold on to the message to bring up a menu. Choose the ‘Edit’ option, which will allow you to change the message.

    Once you’ve made your corrections, save your edits, and the updated message will replace the original one in the chat.

    Read also: TikTok recognizes African content creators

    It’s helpful to have this function, but remember that X might show an edit log so that both parties can see the original and changed messages. Also, you might be unable to change a message after it’s been sent forever, so it’s best to make any changes immediately.

    The new editing tool for DMs on X makes the platform more straightforward by letting people keep their messages clear and correct.

    If you follow the steps above, it will be easy to change your messages and ensure that your conversations on X are correct and current.

  • X is experimenting with removing like, comment, and repost buttons from replies

    X is experimenting with removing like, comment, and repost buttons from replies

    Once more, Elon Musk’s X, once known as Twitter, is preparing a contentious redesign for the platform.

    X is trying to remove the like, comment, and repost buttons from post replies and their respective numbers. Reaction postings would also lose their view count.

    Read also: X launches private likes feature to enhance user privacy

    What New Features Are Coming to X for iOS? 

    Although this modification to X has not yet been made public, X user @aaronp613 found it in the source of the most recent X app, X for iOS v10.53. This method allows for discovering platform updates and new features, some of which have never been released. However, this indicates that the company is formally testing out the removal of these buttons and numbers and is seriously considering making the change.

    Removing these features would impact only the appearance of replies when viewing the original post. When a user clicks on a reply, the views and buttons for liking, commenting, and reporting that reply are displayed on the posting page.

    Eliminating interaction counts from replies would alter X’s culture by impacting the “ratio,” a popular social media meme. The reply posts from users who leave comments on a user’s contentious or unpopular post on X frequently garner more likes and reposts than the initial post. This is called a “ratio.”

    Unpopular X modifications

    Musk has a history of drastically altering X’s culture. Of course, the most notable example is Twitter’s total rebranding to X and the elimination of the colloquial term “tweet” for posts.

    Musk’s X made the most recent change to make all user likes private. The company acknowledged this was done to safeguard users who liked contentious postings.

    Read also: Behind the Decision: X’s Shift on NSFW Content

    A Timeline of X’s Link Preview Changes

    However, X has also retracted controversial decisions. Last year, for example, because Musk did not like how the link headlines appeared, X removed them from postings. The platform experienced issues with the contextless link previews, and X quickly returned to showing headlines.

    Another similar X test that eliminated the like, comment, and respond buttons from the main original post when seen in the feed was found in the X for iOS app’s code last month. After this modification, users have to swipe left or right to interact with a post. X has not yet activated this functionality.

  • Behind the Decision: X’s Shift on NSFW Content

    Behind the Decision: X’s Shift on NSFW Content

    For years, the internet has hosted all types of information, so tweeting porn was expected. X (previously Twitter) has long had several active NSFW (not safe for work) communities, and while the social network informally permitted pornographic content, its policies have never banned it.

    Now, things are different. X added some provisions to its rules over the weekend, making it officially okay for users to post adult and violent content on the platform, though some restrictions exist. So long as it’s marked as NSFW, users can now post content made with their permission. The new rules also apply to movies and pictures made by AI.

    Read also: Elon Musk’s accusations against WhatsApp meets swift rebuttal

    Why Did X Decide to Modify Its Guidelines for Adult Content?

    Because X, under the leadership of Elon Musk, has previously conducted experiments with formally hosting adult material with NSFW groups, the decision to modify the regulations is not entirely unexpected.

    “We believe that users should be able to create, distribute, and consume material related to sexual themes as long as it is consensually produced and distributed. Sexual expression, visual or written, can be a legitimate form of artistic expression,” X’s page on “adult content” policies reads.

    “We believe in the autonomy of adults to engage with and create content that reflects their own beliefs, desires, and experiences, including those related to sexuality. We balance this freedom by restricting exposure to Adult Content for children or adult users who choose not to see it,” the page reads.

    The rules for violent material on X are similar, but X says the content shouldn’t be “excessively gory or displaying sexual violence.” The site still doesn’t let material that directly calls for or encourages violence appear.

    Why Did X Decide to Allow NSFW Content?

    The corporation permits graphic material because it enables individuals to participate in conversations about the events that are taking place in their immediate environment, and it also allows for the inclusion of films and photographs.

    The social network lets users mark their posts as having sensitive content, and people under 18 or who haven’t added their birthdates to their profile can’t see those posts.

    Read also: Elon Musk’s AI Startup secures $6 Billion in funding for expansion

    X has never really banned porn, but these terms could let it build services around adult material. For example, it could make a service similar to OnlyFans to make more money.

    Reuters reported in 2022 that 13% of platform posts featured pornographic content, citing internal business documentation. Given the rise of porn bots on X, adult material has increased since then. 

    The social network’s efforts to filter non-consensual porn and child sexual abuse material will be closely watched by regulators now that it allows adult content.

    In October of last year, Australia fined X for not giving them information about child abuse material. Around the same time, India told several social networks, including X, to take CSAM down from their sites.

  • Mastering the Job hunt on X (Twitter)

    Mastering the Job hunt on X (Twitter)

    Since Elon Musk took over Twitter (now X), the company has been slowly becoming a super “everything app”. The new function lets you search and apply for employment. The improvement has simplified job hunting for job seekers.

    Forget numerous online applications and rigid LinkedIn relationships. Twitter may be the hottest job-hunting platform in 2024. Hidden in plain sight, the land of clever memes and breaking news has several job prospects. How can you obtain your desired job in this bustling hive? Job searchers, get ready to Twitter our way to success!

    Read also: Google commits to creating one million digital jobs in Nigeria

    Job applications on Twitter/X

    Start your employment search at https://twitter.com/jobs or https://x.com/jobs. The platform features a simple interface for setting job search parameters. Keywords and location are crucial. You can filter job listings by profile and interests to see the most relevant ones.

    Twitter/X does not allow direct job applications like LinkedIn or Fuzu. Redirected to SmartRecruiters when you click ‘apply’ on a job you like. The application is done on this external site. Upload your resume, build a professional profile, and apply to the employer here.

    It’s essential to note that the job search feature on Twitter/X acts more like a directory listing than a direct job application portal. It connects you to job openings, but the application is done elsewhere. This setup sets it apart from other job application platforms.

    Improve Your Hashtag Hustle

    Hashtags unlock hidden jobs. Find #contentmarketing, #softwaredev, or #UXdesign hashtags. Follow your favourite firms’ #hiring or #careers hashtags. Join these discussions to share your knowledge and make contacts.

    Brand yourself

    Twitter is a resume, not a lunchtime distraction. Highlight your abilities and accomplishments in a professional bio. Share exciting stories, join industry debates, and retweet. Everyone’s tweet is a potential employer’s first impression.

    Professional Networking

    Don’t lurk. Follow industry influencers, recruiters, and hiring managers. Attend talks, give opinions, and interact with others. Retweet their employment posts and tag nearby prospects. Always remember that Twitter networks are worth it.

    Writing the Perfect Application Tweet

    If you spot a dream job on Twitter, don’t just apply and hope. Personalise your tweet to demonstrate your skills. Include the company and hiring manager and explain why you’re perfect—a mini-resume with a Twitter personality.

    How to land your dream job using LinkedIn’s interview prep

    Keep trying

    Job hunting on Twitter takes time. Your dream job may not come after the first tweet but don’t give up. Maintain your presence, community involvement, and job applications. Be persistent—your following tweet could lead to your next professional move.

    Instead of job boards, try Twitter job seeking. You can turn tweets into interview invites and get your desired job with the correct hashtags, personal brand, and networking magic. 

  • Musk denies withdrawing X, (Twitter) network from Europe

    Musk denies withdrawing X, (Twitter) network from Europe

    Elon Musk, the prominent entrepreneur and visionary behind numerous groundbreaking ventures, has recently made headlines regarding his stance on X (formerly Twitter) and its future in Europe. 

    Amidst media rumors, Musk has unequivocally expressed his intention not to withdraw from the European market, despite the controversies surrounding the social network’s compliance with the Digital Services Act. 

    Read also: X/Twitter will remove Circles by Oct. 31

    Musk’s Commitment to Europe

    Contrary to speculations, Elon Musk has firmly stated that he has no intention of withdrawing X from the European Union. This declaration comes in the midst of concerns over the platform’s compliance with the Digital Services Act, which seeks to address issues related to disinformation. Europe, while accounting for only nine percent of X’s global monthly users, remains a significant market. The potential withdrawal from the EU would not only have compliance-related repercussions but could also lead to a substantial decrease in X’s already dwindling user base.

    X, in response to the ongoing challenges it faces, including the issue of spam and bots, has initiated a pilot program. Under this program, new account holders will be required to pay a modest annual fee of $1 to post content. The primary aim of this initiative is to curb the rampant proliferation of spam bots that often disrupt the user experience on the platform. By introducing a subscription fee, X hopes to enhance the quality of interactions and content on its platform.

    Tesla’s Cybertruck: Musk’s Realistic Outlook

    Elon Musk, known for his involvement in the electric vehicle industry, has expressed a measured perspective on Tesla’s upcoming Cybertruck. While the Cybertruck has garnered significant attention and anticipation, Musk acknowledges the numerous challenges that lie ahead for the vehicle’s production and release. It’s a candid acknowledgment of the complexities involved in bringing innovative automotive technology to market.

    Elon Musk’s Concerns About the Interest Rate Environment

    During a recent earnings call, Elon Musk voiced his concerns about the current high-interest rate environment and its potential impact on car buyers and the broader economy. As the CEO of Tesla, Musk’s insights into economic factors hold weight and can provide valuable perspectives on how interest rates may influence consumer behavior and the automotive industry.

    The Declining Usage of X

    Despite Elon Musk’s assurances and efforts to address challenges, new data suggests that X’s usage is on a declining trajectory. This decline is a concern, given recent claims of usage increases. Analyzing the underlying reasons for this trend and how X intends to counteract it is vital to understanding the platform’s future.

    Elon Musk’s recent statements and actions regarding X’s presence in Europe, spam and bot issues, the Cybertruck, interest rates, and usage trends are of significant relevance in the digital landscape. As Musk continues to be at the forefront of technological innovation and business, his words and actions have far-reaching consequences. It remains to be seen how these developments will shape the future of X and other ventures led by this visionary entrepreneur.

    Twitter introduces custom likes, Hashmoji, Hashfetti

    What is the Digital Services Act?

    The Digital Services Act is a new regulation in the European Union that aims to update and harmonize the rules for online intermediary services, such as social media platforms, online marketplaces, and hosting providers. The Digital Services Act was adopted by the European Parliament and the Council in October 2022 and will enter into force in January 2024

    The main objectives of the Digital Services Act are to:

    Protect the rights and safety of users online by imposing obligations on intermediaries to remove illegal content, ensure transparency of online advertising, and combat online disinformation.

    Ensure a fair and open digital market by preventing large online platforms from abusing their dominant position, imposing fines for non-compliance, and creating a new cooperation mechanism between national authorities and the European Commission.

    Foster innovation and growth by creating a single set of rules for the whole EU, reducing legal fragmentation and uncertainty, and supporting small and medium-sized enterprises

    The Digital Services Act applies to all providers of intermediary services that offer their services in the EU, regardless of where they are established. The obligations of different online players match their role, size and impact in the online ecosystem. For example, very large online platforms (those reaching more than 10% of the EU population) have to comply with additional rules, such as conducting risk assessments, appointing compliance officers, and setting up independent audits.

  • Musk plans to charge for X (Twitter)

    Musk plans to charge for X (Twitter)

    Elon Musk, the billionaire founder and CEO of X, which used to be called Twitter, said the company is considering putting up a paywall for all users. During a live show on X with the Prime Minister of Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu, Musk said that the primary goal of this move is to stop people from using bots so much on the platform. 

    “The biggest reason we’re moving towards a small monthly fee for using the X system is that it’s the only way I can think of to fight against huge armies of bots.”

    He thinks the platform can lower the power of these automated accounts by adding a payment system and prioritizing the posts of premium users. 

    Read also: Twitter’s X app to support video calls

    Musk justified this decision by saying, “A bot costs a fraction of a penny, say a tenth of a penny, but even if it has to pay a few dollars or something, a small amount, the effective cost of bots is very high.” 

    Musk believes the paywall is necessary for X to combat bot activity. The billionaire entrepreneur also aims to offer a lower-tier price option to keep the barrier accessible to more consumers. We want a tiny amount of money, he said. It’s a long topic, but this is the sole defense against bot armies.” 

    Musk has talked with venture capitalist David Sacks about putting up a paywall for all X users, according to a story in the tech newsletter Platformer.

    Elon Musk’s new Twitter logo, X stands for everything

    Does Elon Musk’s fee go against what X was supposed to be?

    Elon Musk has significantly changed the platform since he bought it in October 2022. For example, he changed the name of Twitter to X. In March, he removed the platform’s old verified programme (blue ticks) and replaced it with the Twitter Blue payment service. 

    Musk made these changes as part of his plan to make the platform profitable. In July, Musk admitted that the company was having financial problems. He said, “We still have negative cash flow because advertising income has dropped by about 50%, and we have a lot of debt. We can’t do anything else until we have a positive cash flow.”

    Since then, Musk has started and grown its creator monetisation programme to include a share of the ad revenue it makes from ads that show up in the replies to creators’ tweets. The company stated that this move is part of its plan to help people make more money from the time they spend on the app.

    Creators who meet the Creator Monetization Standards are those who subscribe to Twitter Blue or are verified organizations, who have had more than 5 million tweet views per month in the last three months, and who pass a human review.

  • Hackers steal $690k from Vitalik Buterin’s followers on X (Twitter )

    Hackers steal $690k from Vitalik Buterin’s followers on X (Twitter )

    The crypto space has always been full of hacks, breaches, and scams, but now Vitalik Buterin, the co-founder of Ethereum, has become a victim. 

    According to reports over the weekend, a hacker targeted Vitalik’s X (Twitter) account. After sharing malicious links through the hacked account, the hacker stole nearly $700,000 from unwary users. 

    Read also: China-backed hackers steal Microsoft’s digital consumer key

    How it went down 

    The hacker who got into Vitalik Buterin’s account the following announced a new set of special NFTs from software provider Consensys in a post that has since been taken down.

    The link, viewable to the 4.9 million people who follow Vitalik Buterin on X, told users to connect their wallets and mint the NFTs. Unknown to the victims, the link was a trap to get them to connect their wallets so that all their money could be stolen.

    Vitalik Buterin’s father, Dmitry Buterin, posted on Twitter on Sunday that his son’s account had been hacked:

    “Ignore this post; it looks like Vitalik’s account has been hacked. He is working to get entry back.

    But sadly, the crime had already been committed. 

    ZachXBT, a well-known blockchain researcher, says that when people clicked on the bogus link, they lost over $691,000. Bok Khoo, who works on Ethereum and is known as Bokky Poobah on X, says he has lost money on his CryptoPunk NFT collection. At the time of this writing, the minimum price for a CryptoPunk NFT is 46.99 ETH, which is about $76,000.

    ZachXBT said later on the second day that CryptoPunk #3983, which is worth 153.62 ETH (about $250,000), is the most expensive NFT that has been stolen so far.

    Vitalik Buterin hasn’t said anything about the situation yet, but people are sure his account must have been hacked because he may not have taken enough security measures.

    How hackers hacked Uganda’s Airtel money

    Crypto hacks occur frequently

    This new social media hack joins a growing list that has stolen millions of tokens. Immunefi estimates that hackers and rug pulls will cost Web3 platforms over $1 billion in 2023. The analysis examined 211 cases and determined that crypto investors lost $54 million in one month.

    Remember that hackers invaded the Terra blockchain website in August and added malicious links? This series of hacks questions Twitter’s security. Binance CEO Changpeng Zhao stated the platform’s security isn’t as good as traditional financial accounts and platforms.

    “Two-factor authentication, a login ID different from the handle or email, etc. are needed. Hackers tried different passwords to brute-force my Twitter account, locking it several times. Before “Elon age,” this was true.” Binance CEO Changpeng Zhao stated.

    Two-factor security is a great hacker defense. Users must verify their identity with two pieces of information before creating an account. Twitter only offers two-factor security for paying users.

    On the other hand, some Twitter users think a SIM swap hack was used to break into Vitalik Buterin’s account. SIM swapping means controlling someone’s phone number to get around two-factor security measures on cryptocurrency exchanges or social media sites.

    It’s not sure yet, though, because Buterin’s popularity makes him a target for  hacking efforts. But it would be best if you were careful about clicking on links, especially odd ones on social media.

  • Twitter introduces custom likes, Hashmoji, Hashfetti

    Twitter introduces custom likes, Hashmoji, Hashfetti

    X, also called Twitter, is about to take a big step forward by adding three new features: Custom Likes, Hashmoji, and Hashfetti.

    These branded tools are set to change how brands and marketers connect with their audiences. They fit perfectly with X’s overall strategy of fostering richer interactions and conversations while increasing engagement.

    Social media platforms have changed from easy ways to talk to each other to ecosystems where brands can interact with their target audiences in the digital world. X has set out to help companies and advertisers find solutions that go above and beyond the usual and leave a lasting impression.

    The company said X has always been a place where brands and people connect. X Branded Features boost platform engagement and conversation regarding brands, services, and events. Branded Features and special ad bundles tailor X experiences and audience engagement.

    Read also: Musk’s X (Twitter) obtains another crypto payment certification

    The branded features X launched for marketers

    Custom Likes – A tailored connection

    With this feature, the X-like button will disappear. These brands and advertisers may now customise user engagement. This eliminates one-size-fits-all encounters. X users who like a post with the brand’s chosen post see the brand’s icon instead of a red button.

    These customized likes will show up on all posts with the advertiser’s chosen hashtag, whether they are from regular X users, companies, publishers, or anyone else. This exciting exposure lasts for 24 hours, ensuring people see your brand.

    The company’s blog post says that testing this feature had a good effect, with a +277% increase in recall and a +202% increase in purchase and consideration intent.

    It is currently offered in 31 countries, including Nigeria, but it can only be bought as an add-on to a Timeline Takeover activation or a Timeline Takeover bundle (Timeline Takeover and Spotlight Trends) and Reach Block.

    Hashmoji – A custom emoji

    With this feature, brands and marketers can make emojis that show up on X whenever a user shares a post with a particular hashtag. By using this Hashmoji feature, these brands not only become an essential part of current conversations, but they also become a part of society.

    When a person uses a brand’s Hashmoji in a Post, the brand is shown in a highly relevant and authentic way. This helps brands stand out!

    So, when a brand chooses to use Hashmojis, they choose to make an authentic mark on talks. Also, when a person uses a brand’s Hashmoji in a post, the brand becomes the post’s focus.

    Twitter rebrands, increases income despite 4% weekly user loss

    Hashfetti: Celebration Discussions

    Dynamic visual effects coupled with hashtags give Hashfetti conversations a festive feel. When users click a hashtag for a brand’s campaign, event, or promotion, the screen bursts with confetti, providing a moment of shared joy.

    This appears when you search #brandedfeature on X.

    When a Hashmoji is clicked with Hashfetti, the unique emoji falls like confetti on search results. The unique emoji is more significant and repeated for 24 hours to improve design and movement visibility. 

    To foster community and excitement, consumers should communicate more about companies and their efforts. Hashfetti makes hashtags enjoyable and participatory, making them a vital part of brand strategy for marketing. 

    It is available on iOS and Web in 36 countries, including Nigeria. On the other hand, the blog post claims there might be a spread to Android in the future.