Social media platform X, previously known as Twitter, is in the process of testing a new feature that allows users to create or join communities focused on “adult content” or other “not safe for work” (NSFW) material. This move comes as part of efforts to enhance safety measures and age-appropriate content viewing on the platform.
The feature, as reported by Daniel Buchuk, an analyst at Watchful, involves users being able to specify their community as containing “adult-sensitive content” within the app’s settings. X groups with adult content will be clearly labeled, and content from communities that fail to label appropriately may be filtered out or removed altogether, as per screenshots of the platform’s rules.
Additionally, private communities on X will require age verification for users accessing adult content, ensuring that only those who have specified their age can view NSFW material. Currently, X’s policies already restrict certain content such as graphic media, adult nudity, and sexual behavior for users under 18 or those who haven’t provided their birth date on their profile.
Dong Wook Chung, a senior software engineer at X, emphasized that the introduction of the “adult content” label aims to create a safer environment for all users, with only age-verified individuals being able to search for NSFW communities.
This development coincides with ongoing efforts by US lawmakers to protect minors and young users online. The topic of online safety was highlighted in a recent US Senate hearing where CEOs of various social networks, including X’s Linda Yaccarino, participated.
Notably, X’s approach to content moderation has been transparent, with CEO Elon Musk acknowledging that the platform permits almost all content that is legal, including discussions on sensitive topics like sexual behavior, as long as users appropriately label such content.
As social media platforms continue to evolve their content policies, the focus on safety and age-appropriate content consumption remains a priority, particularly in light of growing concerns about online safety for young users.
Sources By Agencies