San Francisco, CA – Elon Musk, the new owner of Twitter, announced plans for Twitter to remove blocking feature in a post on Friday.
Twitter’s current blocking system prevents blocked accounts from contacting or viewing a user’s profile and tweets. Musk stated that the blocking function “makes no sense” and will be eliminated, apart from blocking direct messages.
The reaction among Twitter users was mixed. Early Twitter investor Jack Dorsey agreed with the decision, tweeting, “100%. Mute only.” However, many users raised concerns that muting alone would not protect against harassment and abuse.
Unlike blocking, muted accounts can still view and reply to your tweets. Without a true blocking option, users worry they will be unable to prevent toxic interactions on the platform.
Critics claim removing blocks could violate app store policies that require measures against bullying. This may jeopardize Twitter’s availability in the Apple and Google app stores.
Also read: Update to Twitter Privacy Policy
It remains to be seen whether existing account blocks will automatically dissolve under the new policy. Users can protect tweets by making accounts private, but this would not prevent unwanted contact.
The removal of blocking is the latest controversial change under Musk’s management. Since acquiring Twitter for $44 billion in October 2022, Musk has fired top executives, instituted $8 monthly fees for verification, and made other contested moves.
Musk stated the blocking change aims to increase user freedom. However, without controls to filter harassment, many users may find Twitter’s landscape transformed for the worse. The policy’s impact on civility and user safety will continue to develop in the coming weeks.
