Elon Musk’s X (formerly Twitter) is now deploying a new feature designed to increase transparency around user accounts. Called “About this account,” the tool displays details such as the account’s location, join date, username change history, and the platform used to download the app. This move comes as X struggles with rampant bot activity and rising concerns about AI-powered manipulation on the platform.
The Problem of Inauthentic Engagement
The rollout addresses a persistent issue: bots and malicious actors often masquerade as legitimate users, spreading misinformation and disrupting online discourse. These accounts frequently lack transparency, making it hard for real users to discern genuine interactions from automated or deceptive ones. X’s solution is to make basic account details publicly visible, giving users more context before engaging.
How the Feature Works
The “About this account” information is accessible by clicking on the “Joined” date on a user’s profile. The displayed data includes:
- Join Date: When the account was originally created.
- Location: The country or region where the account is based.
- Username Changes: A record of how many times the username has been modified, including the date of the latest change.
- Platform Origin: How the user initially accessed X (e.g., via the U.S. App Store or Google Play).
User Control and Privacy Options
While X is pushing for greater transparency, users have some control over what’s displayed. The platform allows individuals to choose whether their precise country is shown or only their broader geographical region. This option is intended to protect users in regions where free speech may carry legal risks, though it is available globally.
To adjust these settings, users can go to the “About your account” section under the “Privacy and Safety” tab within the X app.
Future Development: VPN Detection
X is also reportedly developing a feature to flag accounts using Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to mask their location. If implemented, a warning would appear on profiles of users suspected of using VPNs, indicating that their stated location may be inaccurate. This adds another layer of scrutiny, though it raises privacy concerns about users legitimately using VPNs for security or anonymity.
Why This Matters
X’s move towards transparency is driven by the increasing sophistication of online manipulation. The rise of AI-generated content and deepfakes makes it harder than ever to distinguish between real and fake accounts. By exposing basic account details, X aims to deter malicious actors and restore trust in the platform. However, whether this will be enough to combat the problem remains to be seen. The rollout is still in progress, with some users reporting access while others do not yet see the feature.
The success of this initiative will depend on whether it genuinely reduces bot activity and misinformation, or simply creates a new set of challenges for bad actors to circumvent.
