X Introduces New Subscription Method to Combat Scam Bots and Spam
X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, has unveiled a new subscription method in two countries as part of its ongoing battle against scam bots and spam. The company is also looking to boost its revenue through this initiative.
X (Twitter) Spam Bot Battle Continues
The new subscription scheme, called “Not A Bot,” aims to strengthen X’s existing efforts to reduce spam, manipulation, and bot activity on its platform. Currently, the program is being tested in New Zealand and the Philippines, where new users are charged $1 for opening an account. Existing users are unaffected by this change.
“This new program aims to defend against bots and spammers who attempt to manipulate the platform and disrupt the experience of other X users.”
In addition to the subscription fee, new users in these countries will also be required to verify their phone numbers. Subscribers will have access to posting content, liking posts, replying, retweeting, quoting other accounts’ posts, and bookmarking posts. Users who choose not to pay will have read-only access to the platform.
Reactions from the Crypto Community
The crypto community, which heavily relies on X, had mixed reactions to this announcement. Many expressed concerns that most bot accounts already have paid verification checkmarks. Others pointed out that spam on the platform has worsened, with many verified accounts engaging in such activities. Some individuals in the industry believe that a $1 paywall is insufficient in deterring shitcoin spammers.
Challenges with Flagging Spam
Users have criticized X’s approach to handling spam reports. Notifications are sent when a report is received, but no action is taken, as the platform labels spam as “sensitive content.” It has also been noted that bots and scammers can easily bypass region-based charging by using VPNs and obfuscating their locations.
Future Measures to Combat Spam
X’s owner, Elon Musk, has previously introduced a premium paid blue badge verification product to address the issue of bots and spammers. He has also suggested implementing ID verification or a form of KYC. While this latest subscription method may not completely deter spammers and bots, it may have an impact on new users.
Hot Take: Will X’s New Subscription Method Be Effective?
The introduction of X’s “Not A Bot” subscription method shows the platform’s commitment to combating spam and bot activity. However, concerns have been raised within the crypto community about its effectiveness. With many bot accounts already verified and the potential for higher profits from scams, a $1 paywall may not be sufficient. Additionally, challenges with flagging spam and bypassing region-based charging remain. It remains to be seen whether this new approach will significantly reduce spam and bot activity on X.
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