X Overhauls Block Functionality, Allowing Blocked Users to View Public Posts
X, formerly known as Twitter, has announced a change to its block feature, allowing users who have been blocked to view public posts from the accounts that blocked them. The update, confirmed by Elon Musk and independent app researcher Nima Owji, aims to address a long-standing workaround that allowed blocked users to circumvent the block by logging out and viewing public tweets.
Under the new system, blocked accounts will still be unable to engage with users who have blocked them, but they will be able to access public posts without any restrictions. Owji notes that blocked users may no longer receive the “You’re blocked…” notification when visiting a blocked account, instead viewing public posts as if they were any other user. However, limitations on actions such as reposting or replying are likely to remain in place.
Musk emphasized the need for this change, stating that it was “high time” for X to address the issue. He pointed out that the previous workaround was an “obvious” vulnerability that allowed blocked users to bypass the block. The update aims to prevent this kind of circumvention and ensure that users who have been blocked cannot engage with them.
This is not the first time X has altered its block functionality. In 2013, the platform made a similar change, only to quickly reverse it after user backlash. That update allowed blocked users to see and engage with the content of those who blocked them, leading to an emergency meeting at Twitter and a swift policy reversal.
The latest update has raised concerns among some users, particularly those who rely on the block feature as a means of protecting themselves against harassment and unwanted interactions. While the change does not permit engagement between blocked users and those who blocked them, it may still be seen as a compromise on the privacy and safety of some users.
The move is likely to spark further debate about the role of social media platforms in protecting user privacy and safety online. As X continues to evolve and adapt to changing user needs and behaviors, it remains to be seen whether this update will be seen as a step forward or a step backward for users who rely on the platform.
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