In a post, X stated the program is designed to “reduce spam, manipulation, and bot activity.” The move supports the platform’s goal of ensuring an authentic user experience.
The post revealed new web users in the two countries will need to verify accounts with phone numbers – an extra precaution against fraud.
It’s unclear why the $1 fee targets web users in these specific countries. Industry speculation suggests X may have seen more bot activity from the regions.
Per X, new users who don’t subscribe will have “read-only” access – viewing posts and watching videos.
Oddly, the program’s terms indicate subscription will also be available in X’s iOS and Android apps, though the announcement specified web.
The $1 fee comes in addition to X’s $8/month subscription. CEO Elon Musk has emphasized fees to combat bot armies, though few users currently pay.
Despite initiatives, X enjoys record user engagement time, highlighting the platform’s popularity.
As X works to reduce manipulation, the “Not A Bot” program should strengthen its commitment to an authentic user environment.
#X #NewZealand #Philippines #FakeAccounts #Spam
