X Will Soon Roll Out VPN Usage Indicator on Profiles

X will soon roll out a VPN usage indicator on user profiles, offering greater transparency by indicating when profiles are accessed through VPN.

X recently revealed plans to add new transparency features to user profiles, including an indicator showing if an account uses a VPN to mask its true location. This update aims to focus on accounts that may be engaging in manipulation or spreading disinformation, particularly those involved in foreign political content.

Enhanced Profile Information for Transparency

X has pointed out that these new profile elements will be launching very soon, while another new data point is under process that could be equally valuable in this respect.

This will help indicate whether an account is using a VPN to hide its true location. Users will soon be accessing detailed profile data such as account creation date, location of the creator, and any history of username changes via an “About this profile” section.

While this information won’t be displayed front-and-center in the feed, it will be easily accessible to anyone seeking more context on a user. This could prove valuable in identifying bot accounts or networks designed to agitate and provoke through divisive posts.

Addressing Foreign Influence and Disinformation

Social media platforms like X face ongoing challenges from foreign actors using accounts to amplify propaganda and influence public opinion.

Microsoft has documented large-scale influence campaigns originating from China targeting U.S. platforms. Google has recently taken down thousands of YouTube channels linked to Chinese and Russian coordinated state operations.

With X easing moderation policies, it has become an even more attractive venue for such activities, making new transparency tools essential in curbing manipulation.

Potential Limitations Depend on User Engagement

The success of these new profile insights will hinge on user awareness and action.

If users actively consult the “About this profile” data to verify location or VPN use, it could help reduce the influence of foreign operations by exposing suspicious patterns.

However, without widespread engagement, the impact may be limited.