X to Enhance User Trust with Profile Transparency

X's New Feature to Enhance User Transparency

With the increasing sophistication of artificial intelligence in creating human-like bots, X, formerly known as Twitter and owned by Elon Musk, is developing a new functionality. This feature aims to provide users with greater insight into the identities of those behind X profiles.

Details of the Upcoming Feature

Nikita Bier, X’s head of product, announced that the platform will soon begin testing the display of additional information on user profiles. This will encompass details like account creation date, geographical location, the frequency of username alterations, and the manner in which the account utilizes X’s services.

The core objective is to empower users to make more informed judgments regarding the authenticity of accounts they interact with. This increased transparency is intended to help distinguish genuine users from potential bots or malicious actors spreading misinformation.

Identifying Potential Inconsistencies

For example, discrepancies between a user’s stated location and their account information could raise suspicions. If a profile claims a U.S. base but shows activity originating overseas, it might indicate ulterior motives.

Similarly, downloading the X application from an international app store while presenting as a U.S. resident could also be a point of concern. While relocation is possible, such signals, combined with frequent username changes, could serve as warning signs.

Privacy Considerations and Initial Testing

Bier stated that initial testing will commence with X employee profiles next week to gather feedback. He also addressed privacy concerns, confirming users will have the option to opt out of displaying this information.

However, he added that opting out may be visibly indicated on the user’s profile. Regarding location data, X may substitute region for country in areas where expressing certain viewpoints could lead to repercussions.

Similar Initiatives on Other Platforms

The concept of displaying more account information to foster user understanding isn't novel. Adam Mosseri, head of Instagram, recently mentioned a similar feature during Bloomberg’s Screentime conference.

Instagram already allows users to view details such as profile age, country of origin, and username change history through an “About this profile” section. Mosseri indicated that Instagram may expand this functionality further.

Addressing Trust and Ongoing Efforts

While these changes on X could improve trust to some degree, it’s acknowledged that scammers and spammers are adept at circumventing such measures.

This development follows a recent effort by X to remove 1.7 million bots engaged in reply spam, demonstrating a continued commitment to platform integrity.

Ultimately, the goal is to create a more trustworthy environment on the platform by providing users with more context about the individuals and entities they interact with.