Elon Musk, the CEO of the social media platform X, revealed plans to implement a fee for new users posting on the platform as a measure to tackle the issue of bots.
Musk made this announcement on Monday, emphasizing that this fee is necessary to address the proliferation of fake accounts.
According to Musk, the rise in fake accounts has led to a shortage of available usernames, impacting the platform’s usability.
He stated, “Unfortunately, a small fee for new user write access is the only way to curb the relentless onslaught of bots.”
Musk explained that current AI technology makes it easy for bots to bypass verification measures, contributing to the problem. He also noted that the influx of fake accounts results in many desirable usernames being already taken.
Under the new policy, new users will initially be required to pay to post, but after three months, posting will become free.
This move follows a similar initiative launched last year in New Zealand and the Philippines, where new users were charged $1 per year for access to key features.
The objective behind these measures, according to X, is to reduce spam, manipulation, and bot activity on the platform. Musk further disclosed ongoing efforts to clean X of bot accounts and trolls, warning of potential suspension for legitimate accounts found in violation.
Additionally, he emphasized the platform’s commitment to holding individuals accountable for their actions.