Blocked X Users will now be able to view your public posts, but will not be able to interact with them.
X (formerly twitter) is now going to show your posts to blocked users. On Monday, X owner Elon Musk said the block function will stop users from engaging with public posts but not seeing them.
If you’re blocked, X shows you a message saying so. You can’t see their posts, replies, media, followers, or following list.
A source at X told The Verge that people can already see posts from users who’ve blocked them when using another account or when logged out. But several of us have noticed that X actually prevents you from viewing someone’s profile if you’re logged out.
High time this happened. The block function will block that account from engaging with, but not block seeing, public post.
Musk is no fan of the block button. He calls the feature “possibly unnatural, a defect” just last year. He also threatened he might not allow users to block contacts (other than direct messages) anymore
However, X can block a person and they will no longer be able to interact with their posts but still see them. That could enable perpetrators to more easily target their prey.
How can I prevent people from seeing my post in X?
Well, there is a simple solution to this change. People need to adapt to this unnecessary change. Keep your account in Private Mode. Only If the account is public then the post will be visible to the blocked users.
Users must be aware of who they allow to follow them and consider limiting the number of accounts that can follow them.
Pros and Cons of Removing the Block Button
Pros:
- Promotes Open Dialogue: In case the block button is not available in the future, it may produce open talks and avoid echo chambers.
- More Post Visibility: This will have the effect of extending your centralized articles to readers who had previously blocked you off which can help with engagement.
- Simplifies User Interface: Less clutter with fewer settings to manage.
- No random followers :It would make users to be mindful of who they allow to follow them, and to consider limiting the number of accounts that can follow them.
Cons:
Mental State Impact: The mental toll of being accompanied by people you may have blocked in another life, so much so that it might cause a physical feeling of distress, but hey! no blocking.
Increased Exposure to Harassment: Blocked users can still see your public posts, and hence they can stalk or abuse.
Reduced Privacy Control: Users lose an important tool for managing interactions, potentially feeling less secure.
How to Stay Safe on X After the Block Button Changes
With the block feature’s limited functionality, here are steps you can take to safeguard your experience:
- Use the Mute Feature: Muting still prevents you from seeing unwanted accounts, without them knowing.
- Make Use of Reporting Tools: If someone violates guidelines, report the behavior immediately for swift action.
- Control Your Audience: Set your posts to private, restricting your visibility to approved followers only.
- Review Your Follower List: Regularly check your followers and remove suspicious or unwanted accounts.
- Be Mindful of What You Share: Avoid posting sensitive personal information on public timelines to limit exposure.
Conclusion
In this case, there may be some potential drawbacks to this change. While the new block function will prevent that account from engaging with public posts, it may not fully address the issue of them seeing those posts.
X may consider implementing new security features to help users feel more at ease while using the platform. Let us stay hopeful.
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