The Block Dilemma: Why X's Changes Are Troubling for Users Like Me
X's changes to the block feature weaken privacy, allowing blocked users to still view content, raising concerns about safety and user control.
When X announced it was changing the block function, I had mixed feelings, but I’m leaning more toward being worried. Blocking has always been about setting boundaries, it’s not just a "mute" button for annoying accounts; it's a tool that lets us keep unwanted people out of our online space. So, this new approach, where blocked users can still view my content, feels like it’s diluting the very essence of what blocking is meant for.
Soon we’ll be launching a change to how the block function works.
— Engineering (@XEng) October 16, 2024
If your posts are set to public, accounts you have blocked will be able to view them, but they will not be able to engage (like, reply, repost, etc.).
Why the Changes Matter
This update essentially leaves the window open while trying to close the door. While blocked users may still be restricted from interacting, the fact that they can view my posts undermines the purpose of blocking altogether. For those of us who use this tool not just for convenience but as a means of safeguarding against harassment or just unwanted attention, this change reduces the sense of security we once had.