Elon Musk’s social media platform, X, formerly known as Twitter, is under scrutiny as the Tech Transparency Project (TTP) alleged it provided subscription perks, including blue check marks, to designated terrorist groups and entities prohibited in the US.
The TTP discovered instances of Hezbollah members and individuals facing US sanctions receiving these benefits.
Initially intended for identity verification, the blue check marks later became a paid feature at $8 a month, prompting criticism for potentially worsening disinformation and enabling impersonation.
X removed some check marks associated with sanctioned entities following the TTP report, emphasizing the platform’s robust security measures.
The controversy extended to entities like the Houthis reportedly paying for blue check marks, raising concerns about X potentially violating US sanctions laws.
Elon Musk’s platform had faced previous criticism, such as reinstating Kanye West’s account in 2023 after an eight-month ban for offensive posts.
While X asserted its subscription process aligns with legal obligations and undergoes independent screening by payment providers, the TTP argued that some entities receiving check marks are owned by individuals under US sanctions.
Elon Musk, the owner of X, envisioned the platform as a “town square” for free speech but grapples with challenges in controlling controversial content and decisions.
