X (formerly known as Twitter) has begun rolling out a new blocking function that allows blocked users to view the profiles, posts, followers, and following lists of those who have blocked them. The platform first announced these changes last month, but the implementation has drawn significant criticism from its user base.
Traditionally, when a user blocked another on social media, the blocked individual lost all access to the blocker’s profile and content, including posts, bios, and direct messaging capabilities. Under the updated system, while blocked users can still see the profiles and posts of those who have blocked them, they will not be able to reply, retweet, or like the content. Direct messages remain off-limits as well.
The new support page detailing these changes highlights a further reduction in safety features, as it allows blocked users to see the followers and following lists of the users who have blocked them. This modification has raised alarms among many, who fear it could increase the risk of harassment and content theft.
In an explanation for the update, the official Engineering page of X stated, “Today, block can be used by users to share and hide harmful or private information about those they’ve blocked. Users will be able to see if such behaviour occurs with this update, allowing for greater transparency.” However, this rationale has done little to quell the discontent among users.
Many have taken to social media to express their concerns. One user noted, “Those of us who have stalkers on here and content thieves don’t appreciate this change at all and shouldn’t need to lock our accounts to protect ourselves from predatory types.” Tracy Chou, a developer of the Block Party app designed to help users manage blocking more effectively, also criticized the change, stating, “Making it easy for a creeper to creep is not a good thing!!”
As the rollout continues, the reception remains overwhelmingly negative, with many users questioning the decision and its implications for their online safety.
