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Dominic Ligot
Dominic Ligot
Technologist, Social Impact, Data Ethics, AI
Published Oct 21, 2023
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Recently, I made a significant effort to enhance my online presence by getting myself verified on X. My goal was to improve my ability to distribute content, especially when it comes to topics like AI and cybersecurity, which often seem like taboo subjects for journalists, particularly in the Philippines. These subjects are frequently misunderstood or not presented in an accessible manner. This year, I embarked on a mission to break down technological barriers and encourage the adoption of tech by making it more understandable. It started with AI, but recent cyberattacks have made me realize that cybersecurity also deserves a boost in understanding.
However, my journey took an unexpected turn. Shortly after I received verification, I noticed a dramatic drop in my traffic on X. Concerned about this sudden decline, I decided to investigate. I checked my account stats, and the results were disheartening—I seemed to be a victim of shadowbanning.
Understanding Shadowbanning:
Now, you might be wondering what shadowbanning is. According to X's official stance, they deny its existence, as mentioned in their support documents. However, shadowbanning is a real phenomenon that many users, including myself, have experienced. It's a covert method of limiting the visibility and reach of a user's content without their knowledge.
Shadowbanning manifests in various ways, and here are some of the common symptoms:
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Why Shadowbanning Occurs:
The exact reasons for shadowbanning are challenging to pinpoint because platforms like X deny its existence. It is likely an algorithmic decision, but it could also result from mass reporting of your account, which can ultimately lead to suspension or closure.
The Irony of My Experience:
What's ironic about my situation is that everything was going perfectly fine when I was just a regular poster. It was only when I believed that becoming verified could help me better connect with my audience that X seemingly decided to censor my account. It's a frustrating experience, especially considering the principles of free speech and open discourse that we often advocate for in the online world.
Conclusion:
My experience with shadowbanning on X has been a frustrating and eye-opening one. While the platform denies its existence, many users, including myself, have encountered its effects firsthand. As I continue to navigate these challenges, I am reminded of the importance of free speech and open dialogue in the digital realm. It's essential to stay vigilant and persistent in our efforts to engage with our audience and share valuable insights, even in the face of obstacles like shadowbanning.
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9 Comments
Robinson Muiru
Founder | Software Engineer | Innovation researcher |Product Ideation | Product Management
3mo
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Did you find the solution to ghost ban?
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Merril R
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4mo
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I was also shadowbanned and then permanently suspended on Twitter X. Obviously for posting my "Leftist" opinions. So much for Musk's free speech.
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Jyrki Repo
engineer, freelance journalist and a publicist
5mo
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Did You ever find a way to do anything about this? I saw a blog post from X where they said this doesn't exist, although it obviously does.
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