After recent events that have sparked concerns about the spreading of misinformation, hate speech, and far-right violence on the social media platform X, many users are considering deleting their accounts. In light of these troubling developments, politicians, celebrities, and even institutions like the NHS’s Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital have started to abandon the platform. This article will provide a step-by-step guide on how to delete your X account, as well as explore the reasons behind the growing trend of users leaving the platform.
The Controversy Surrounding X
The decision to delete an X account comes after a series of troubling events that have unfolded on the platform. Labour minister Jess Phillips criticized X as “a place of misery”, while Liverpool mayor Steve Rotheram urged politicians to consider leaving the platform due to its role in spreading hate speech. X owner Elon Musk has also faced backlash for his controversial statements, including predicting a civil war in the UK and making jokes about UK policing.
The platform’s decline in active users since Mr. Musk took over in 2022 is further evidence of the growing dissatisfaction with X. In 2023, the number of users worldwide fell from 368 million to 359 million, with projections suggesting a further decline this year. The addition of a paid premium option and increased advertising under Mr. Musk’s leadership has not been enough to stem the exodus of users.
Reasons for Deleting Your X Account
There are several reasons why users may choose to delete their X accounts. The spread of misinformation, hate speech, and far-right violence on the platform has raised serious concerns about its impact on society. The recent misattributed attack in Southport, which led to hate speech and far-right riots, highlights the dangers of unchecked content on social media platforms. Liverpool mayor Steve Rotheram’s call for a mass exodus from X reflects a growing sentiment among users who are fed up with the platform’s toxic environment.
Furthermore, X owner Elon Musk’s controversial statements and divisive rhetoric have alienated many users who no longer feel comfortable supporting the platform. Musk’s championing of X as a platform for free speech has been met with skepticism and criticism, with many questioning the true motives behind his policies and decisions.
How to Delete Your X Account
If you have decided to delete your X account, here is a step-by-step guide on how to do so:
1. Deactivate your account: Navigate to ‘Settings and Privacy’ in the mobile app or on desktop. Find the ‘Your Account’ section and select ‘Deactivate your account’. Follow the on-screen instructions to confirm the deactivation.
2. Wait for 30 days: Your account will remain deactivated for 30 days before it is permanently deleted. Premium users can choose to keep their account inactive for up to 12 months.
3. Download your data: Before deactivating your account, make sure to download any data you want to keep. Once your account is deleted, this data will be inaccessible.
By following these steps, you can effectively delete your X account and take a stand against the harmful content and rhetoric that has plagued the platform in recent times.
In conclusion, the decision to delete your X account is a personal choice that reflects your values and beliefs. As the platform continues to face scrutiny for its role in spreading misinformation, hate speech, and far-right violence, more users are choosing to take a stand and leave the platform. By following the step-by-step guide outlined in this article, you can join the growing movement of users who are choosing to prioritize their well-being and safety over their online presence.