Elon Musk's X Content Moderation Report

The transparency report reveals that X suspended approximately 5.3 million accounts and removed or labeled over 10.6 million posts, marking a stark increase from previous years. The majority of the removals were attributed to violations of policies against hateful conduct, harassment, and violent content. In total, the platform received over 224 million user reports during this period, indicating ongoing concerns about the safety and moderation of content on the site. Critics have expressed worries that X has become less safe under Musk’s leadership, especially following significant staff layoffs and changes in moderation policies. The report also reflects X’s efforts to reassure advertisers and stakeholders about its commitment to policing harmful content amid increasing scrutiny and legal challenges in various countries, including Brazil.

Key Findings from the Report

• Account Suspensions: X suspended 5.3 million accounts from January to June 2024, a notable increase compared to the 1.6 million suspended during the same period in 2022.

• Content Removals: The platform removed or labeled over 10.6 million posts, with around 5 million categorized under its “hateful conduct” policy. Posts flagged for “violent content” and “abuse and harassment” were also significant contributors to the total.

• User Reports: The company received more than 224 million user reports, reflecting heightened user engagement with the moderation process.

Changes in Moderation Approach

Under Musk’s leadership, X has shifted its approach to content moderation, employing a combination of automated systems and human review. The report indicates that less than 1% of all content on the platform violates its policies, suggesting that the majority of users do not encounter problematic content frequently. However, the reinstatement of previously suspended accounts and the relaxation of certain policies have raised concerns among safety experts.

Advertiser and Regulatory Concerns

The release of the transparency report comes amid fears that advertisers may reduce their spending on X due to safety concerns. Surveys indicate that a significant portion of advertisers lack confidence in the platform’s ability to provide brand safety. Additionally, X is facing legal scrutiny in various jurisdictions, which could further impact its operations and reputation.

Overall, the transparency report serves as both a reflection of X’s content moderation practices and a response to growing concerns about user safety and platform integrity under Musk’s ownership.