X, formerly Twitter, is stepping up its crackdown on parody accounts after a series of fake Elon Musk accounts went viral on the platform. The accounts created confusion among users and even led to widespread misinformation. Elon Musk, the current owner of X, said impersonations are no longer harmless fun. The new policy requires parody accounts to clearly note in their names and descriptions that they are satirical or unofficial. Failure to comply could result in suspension or permanent deletion.
Musk has been a prime target for fake accounts in the past, especially after he took over Twitter and changed his name to X. Some accounts have even mimicked his writing style, profile pictures, and posts to fool users. X’s content moderation team is expanding to handle violations more quickly. Many users have welcomed the new rules, saying they will protect their privacy and self-image. However, some have expressed concern that the policy could limit the free speech and humor that characterize social media.
In response, Musk affirmed that X still supports creativity and humor, but with responsibility and transparency. He also emphasized that individuals who intentionally impersonate celebrities to commit fraud or spread false information will be severely punished. This is a step in the effort to rebuild user trust in X.
