End of line for Twitter/X

Known for its microblogging format, Twitter once offered an open forum for diverse voices, real-time news, and global conversations with moderation for excess through an active team fighting disinformation and responding to content violations. However, the platform's evolution into "X" represents a significant departure from its origins. I advocated that Twitter had the potential to require regulation in 2009 when it was a company with just 35 people, but now that it is a worldwide influence on peoples behaviour it seems to me that the genie has left the bottle and the site is now a clear and present danger to our society. 

The phrase "end of line" originates from the 1982 science fiction film Tron. In the movie, the Master Control Program (MCP), a powerful and authoritarian artificial intelligence, uses this phrase to signify the conclusion of its commands or communications. The MCP, which dominates the digital world inside the ENCOM mainframe, asserts control over the programs and users within it, often punctuating its directives with the ominous sounding "end of line".

This phrase underscores the finality and absolute authority of the Master Control Program, reinforcing its role as the central antagonist in Tron. Within the context of the film, it symbolizes the termination of freedom and the rigid enforcement of the MCP's will, reflecting the dystopian undertones of the digital world depicted in Tron. Over time, "end of line" has transcended its origins, becoming a popular cultural reference, especially in discussions related to technology, finality, and control. Its enduring legacy is a testament to the impact of Tron on both the science fiction genre and the broader digital culture.

Recently, concerns about user experience, privacy, and the overall value of staying connected to Twitter/X have grown. The tipping point for me was the far right protests in the UK in august 2024 and the insertion of the billionaire owner into UK politics. This crossed a line for me, although unplugging from Twitter/X has been something I've been thinking hard about for some time, so I set about removing myself from Twitter/X.

Heres how I did it. It didn't take long and it protects the account name from spammers taking over. End of line for me is about me moving off the platform I loved.

TL:DR – This article explores the reasons why leaving Twitter/X may be the right decision now, and how to go about it effectively by mothballing a twitter account. Unfollowing all. Setting to protected. Adjusting settings to limit use for AI harvesting of data, deleting profile pic and background, updating profile to say bye, deleting third party products permissions to access my account and sending a final message.

The Shift from Twitter to X is about a changed landscape

Twitter, once a simple site for open discourse where like minds could connect and discuss technology, people, places, cats and traffic cones has morphed into "X" – a rebranded, more opaque platform. This transformation is not just cosmetic; it marks a deeper shift in the platform's purpose and functionality. The original Twitter was centered around user-driven content and real-time interaction in the time between longer form blog posts or written articles, but X introduces new dynamics that prioritize profitability, algorithm-driven content, and a more controlled user environment. This shift has led to a fragmented user experience, leaving many people feeling alienated and questioning their place on the platform.

What was once a hub for grassroots movements, citizen journalism, and diverse opinions has become a platform driven by corporate interests and algorithmic curation. The focus has shifted away from organic content discovery to a model that prioritizes paid promotions and algorithmically selected content, leaving the platform unrecognisable to its long-time users.

People and businesses are leaving due to growing concerns and user dissatisfaction

As X continues to deviate from the original incredible idea that people who didnt know one another could connect over shared interests and celebrities could connect directly to their audience, user dissatisfaction has increased. There has been a notable decline in meaningful interactions due to the increasing difficulty of finding content that resonates. The platform's shift towards monetization and controlled narratives thought its default tabs in the interface has made it less appealing to those who once valued its open, user-driven environment. Many are finding that X no longer serves their needs, prompting what has begin to be called an exodus.

A complex web of algorithms are designed to maximize engagement – often at the cost of content quality. These changes have altered how users interact with the platform, making it more difficult to discover new voices and content. The introduction of features like paid subscriptions, promoted tweets, and restricted visibility for non-paying users have further skewed the dynamics, making it challenging for users to navigate the platform as they once did.

For businesses and influencers, X's shift has had a significant impact on reach and engagement. The algorithmic changes favor those who pay for visibility, making it harder for smaller brands and independent influencers to gain traction. Organic reach has dwindled, reducing brand visibility andforcing businesses to rethink their strategies and consider whether their resources are better spent elsewhere.

Specific examples of people leaving Twitter/X

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Reasons to Consider Leaving Now

Algorithmic Bias

One of the most pressing concerns is that the platform's algorithms increasingly filter content, often in ways that reflect biases, limiting exposure to diverse perspectives. This censorship, whether intentional or not, stifles the open exchange of ideas that Twitter was once known for. The result is an environment where users only hear one perspective, the one which the algorithm decides will generate the most engagement, reinforcing their exising views and stereotypes.

Privacy Concerns

With the transition to X, concerns about privacy have intensified. The platform's data collection practices have expanded, often without clear communication to users. Personal information may be being harvested to feed advertising algorithms, creating detailed profiles that can be exploited by third parties. Default settings enable the use of user data for AI. This invasive data collection has led many to question whether their continued presence on the platform is worth the privacy risks involved.

Toxic environment, misinformation and online harassment

X has become a breeding ground for misinformation and online harassment. The platform's commitment to free speech has often clashed with its ability to moderate harmful content effectively. Under the current management the content moderation team is absent. As a result, users are frequently exposed to false information, cyberbullying, and other forms of online abuse. The toxic environment has driven many to seek refuge on other platforms that offer a safer and more supportive space.

Decline in Content Quality and User Engagement

The quality of content on X has deteriorated as the platform prioritizes viral content over substantive discussions. Users are increasingly disengaged, finding it difficult to wade through the noise to find meaningful interactions. The emphasis on quick, attention-grabbing posts has led to a decline in thoughtful discourse, making the platform less appealing to those seeking genuine connections and valuable insights.

The Risk of Reputation Damage

X's volatile environment increases the risk of reputation damage for businesses and influencers. There is a risk that the platform's susceptibility to controversies, including those surrounding content moderation and political bias, could quickly embroil users be they individuals, businesses or brands in negative publicity. Navigating these issues requires careful management and, in some cases, might not be worth the potential fallout, leading some to assess that the best way to manage the risk of reputation damage is to exit the platform altogether.

Alternatives to Twitter/X for Brand Communication

As businesses and influencers grapple with these challenges, many are exploring alternative platforms for brand communication. Platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads, Mastodon, Bluesky and others offer different dynamics that may better align with their communication goals. These alternatives provide opportunities to build communities in environments that are more predictable and aligned with their brand values.

Financial implications

Subscription models and monetisation strategies

The introduction of subscription models and other monetization strategies on X presents a new set of financial implications for users. While these models offer the potential for new revenue streams, they also require a significant investment of time and resources. Users must weigh up the costs against the benefits, considering whether the return on investment justifies the effort required to maintain a presence on the platform.

Advertising revenue decline

Advertising revenue on X has seen a decline as businesses question the platform's effectiveness in reaching their target audiences. The changing algorithms and increased competition for visibility have reduced the impact of paid promotions, leading some to reassess the value of their advertising investments. For many, the decreasing returns may make it difficult to justify continued spending on the platform.

Potential for Future Instability

The long-term viability of X is uncertain, given the ongoing changes and the growing user dissatisfaction. Businesses and influencers must consider the potential for future instability, including further algorithmic shifts, regulatory challenges, and declining user engagement. This uncertainty makes it important to decide whether maintaining a presence on X is a sustainable strategy in the long term.

The Psychological toll on users

Social media burnout

Social media burnout is a growing concern for users who find themselves overwhelmed by the demands of maintaining an active presence on X. The constant need to engage, respond, and stay relevant can lead to exhaustion and might lead to disillusionment. Recognising the signs of burnout, such as decreased motivation, frustration, and a sense of detachment, is the first step towards addressing this issue.

The pressure of constant connectivity

The pressure of constant connectivity on X can take a significant toll on an individuals mental health. The platform's design encourages continuous engagement, leading to anxiety, stress, and a sense of being perpetually "online". This can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy and comparison, as users are bombarded with carefully curated highlights from others' lives. Disconnecting from X, even temporarily, can provide wecome relief and help restore mental well-being.

Benefits of disconnecting from the platform

Disconnecting from X offers numerous benefits, including the opportunity to reclaim control over one's time and mental space. Without the constant barrage of notifications and the pressure to stay engaged, users can focus on more meaningful activities and relationships. The break from social media can also lead to increased productivity, improved mood, and a more balanced perspective on life.

Step-by-Step guide to leaving Twitter/X

Before leaving X, it's important to consider backing up your data and archiving any content you want to keep. This includes downloading tweets, direct messages, and media files. Several, usually paid for tools are available to help automate this process, ensuring that your digital history is preserved should you wish to preserve it even after you deactivate your account. Rather than repeat it you can check out an article about downoading a copy of yor data and deleting your Twitter/X account here: How to download tweets & delete your twitter account.

Deactivating your account

Deactivating your X account is a straightforward process, but it's important to understand the steps involved. Begin by accessing your account settings and selecting the option to deactivate. The platform will guide you through a series of prompts, asking you to confirm your decision and providing information on what deactivation entails. Once deactivated, your account will remain in a suspended state for 30 days before being permanently deleted, giving you time to reconsider if necessary.

Mothballing your twitter account

I chose instead to mothball my account in order to stop someone picking up my twitter user ID. Perhaps someday a different regime will make it possible for me to return like NeoPets years later. Seems unlikely.

Unfollow all

I used a tool to help me here. It would take a long long time to unfollow thousands of accounts manually. It cost me $8.39, saved hours and hours and the risk of repetitive strain injury. Search for it on the chrome web store. Alternatives are available. No connection with the author it just worked fine for me.

Set to protected

Setting your Twitter/X account to protected enhances your privacy by controlling who can view your tweets. To enable this feature, navigate to the "Settings and Privacy" menu on the platform. From there, select Audience media and tagging, then select "Privacy and Safety," then toggle the "Protect your Posts" option. Once activated, your tweets will only be visible to your approved followers.

In conjunction with unfollowing all this makes your posts invisible.

You can no longer be retweeted and your tweets are no longer eligible for public search results. Additionally unsolicited interactions are no longer possible. Importantly, tweets shared while your account is protected remain inaccessible to non-followers should the protection be later removed. Enabling this feature on Twitter/X in conjunction with unfollowing all effectively suspends your account without deleting it.

Anonymise profile pic and background

To anonymize your profile picture and banner picture on Twitter/X, start by selecting images that obscure your identity while still maintaining a professional appearance. I chose single colours but abstract designs, landscapes, or symbolic icons are also good choices. These types of images convey a specific aesthetic without revealing personal details.

For the profile picture, you might choose a graphic that represents your online persona or brand without featuring your face. Again I chose a single colour but you might prefer a logo, an abstract design, or a meaningful symbol. The goal is to retain a recognizable image that  protects your new anonymity.

When selecting a banner picture, consider using an image that complements your profile picture but remains neutral.

Update profile to say bye

 I left a message explaining that I am no longer here. It simply states:

I don’t engage here anymore. Unfollowed everyone. Nothing personal. Find me at other places. It was a good run - 2009-2024.

Deleting third party product permissions

To safeguard your account on Twitter/X, remove permissions granted to third-party applications. These apps, often linked to various online services, can access your account’s data, potentially posing privacy risks.

Begin by navigating to the "Settings and Privacy" section of Twitter/X. From there, select "Security and Account Access," followed by "Apps and Sessions." This will lead you to an unloved and infrqequently visited screen—the list of third-party apps that have access to your account. Carefully scrutinize each application, especially those you no longer use or recognize. In my case I revoked access to them all.

To revoke access, simply click on the app and select "Revoke Access." This action immediately disconnects the app from your account, ensuring it no longer has the ability to interact with your data. Regularly performing this task not only enhances your account’s security but also minimizes the risk of unauthorized access. By maintaining control over which apps can access your Twitter/X data, you effectively tighten up access and protect your online presence from potential vulnerabilities.

At last I appreciate the care and love that went into the OAuth work at Twitter all those years ago.

Whats left?

Deleting all tweets I suppose. But they are unlikely to matter much in the great scheme of things.

Handling the Transition with Your Audience

Communicating Your Decision

Communicating your decision to leave X is crucial, especially if you have a substantial following. Transparency is key – explain your reasons for leaving and provide details on where your audience can continue to follow your content. Whether through a final tweet, a blog post like this one, or a video message, ensure that your audience understands your decision and knows how to stay connected with you.

Redirecting Your Audience: Providing Clear Pathways to New Platforms

To retain your audience after leaving X, provide clear pathways for them to follow you on new platforms. I included a links to this site https://www.ezone.co.uk to encourage them to find me. This proactive approach will hopefully maintain my connection to my community.

Maintaining Engagement Post-Twitter/X: Strategies for Retention

Maintaining engagement after leaving X requires consistent effort across your new platforms. Just as with Twitter before, it is all about regularly posting content that resonates with your audience, engages with their comments and messages, and continuing to provide value through your expertise or entertainment. By staying active and responsive, you can retain your audience's interest and loyalty, even after transitioning away from X.

Conclusion

The decision to leave X is a significant one, requiring careful consideration of the platform's evolution, the impact on your personal or professional life, and the available alternatives. For many, the changes in user experience, privacy concerns, and the decline in content quality make leaving the right choice. As you contemplate this decision, remember that leaving X is not the end of your social media journey but rather an opportunity to embrace new platforms and communities that better align with your values and goals. The digital landscape is vast, and subject to continuous change and by taking the next step, you open yourself up to new possibilities and a more fulfilling online experience.

Good luck. Thanks for reading.