In the last two years, X (formerly Twitter) has undergone significant changes, especially regarding its terms of service (ToS), partly in response to new regulatory frameworks like the European Union’s Data Act. This legislation, aimed at ensuring greater transparency and control over user data, required platforms like X to revise their policies. The key updates to X’s ToS focus on data collection, third-party data sharing, and content moderation, which have implications for both users and advertisers.
One of the most noticeable changes in X’s ToS is how the platform handles user data. The new terms outline broader data collection methods, where X can access a wider range of user information, including biometric data and employment history. This shift was driven by the platform’s aim to enhance its machine-learning models for personalized ads and recommendations. While these practices are technically compliant with the Data Act’s provisions, they have raised concerns about the extent to which user data is shared with third-party companies for advertising and other purposes. Additionally, the revised terms allow for closer scrutiny of users’ interactions, even across external websites that incorporate X’s embedded features like “share” buttons or widgets. This has lit debates over user privacy, as many feel their consent is being neglected by these widespread data-sharing mechanisms. The issue of fake profiles is not new in X, and recent changes in the platform’s moderation policies aim to address this. While X introduced a more aggressive verification system, with subscription-based verification through X Premium (previously known as Twitter Blue), many argue that this has not fully solved the problem. Fake accounts continue to proliferate, exploiting loopholes in the automated verification process. Despite these efforts, the persistence of bots and fake profiles has contributed to weaken user trust, especially in the context of important public discussions and political discourses.
Over the past year, X has seen a decline in active users, and multiple factors have contributed to this trend. The platform’s monetization model, particularly its tendency to focus pressure on paid verification, has alienated some users. Many feel that X has shifted away from its roots as a platform for free and open discourse, becoming more focused on commercial interests. The rise of alternative platforms that prioritize user privacy, such as Mastodon and Threads, has also implied the appearance of new players to the game. The perception that these alternatives offer a more transparent and community-driven experience has only furthered the migration away from X.
In conclusion, the changes to X’s terms of service, while necessary for regulatory compliance, have not resonated well with all users. Alongside the ongoing issue of fake profiles and the platform’s evolving focus on revenue, these factors have contributed to a decline in user engagement. While X remains a significant player in the social media landscape, in terms of regaining user trust and maintaining its relevance, it is going down the slope.
