New feature uncovers hidden account origins
X’s location tool has revealed political accounts with large audiences operating outside the US. Users identified pro-Trump accounts posting about US politics while based abroad. Some anti-Trump accounts also misrepresented their locations. Their posts earned millions of impressions, which can lead to payouts from X.
X defends data accuracy
The “about this account” tab displays location on every profile. It warns that travel, temporary stays, and VPNs may affect accuracy. X’s product chief Nikita Bier says the data is 99% reliable. On Saturday, Trump shared a screenshot on Truth Social from “TRUMP_ARMY_.” The post celebrated a Supreme Court ruling allegedly allowing him to deport criminals to El Salvador. The account has over half a million followers, including a senior Republican senator. X shows the account operates from India and changed its username four times since March 2022. The last change was in July 2022. The profile now reads “an Indian who loves America, President Trump, Musk!”
Fan accounts operate from abroad
The account “IvankaNews_” promoted Trump’s daughter and gathered over one million followers. It encouraged votes for Trump last year. X data shows it operates from Nigeria and changed its username 11 times since 2010. After its location became public, the account said that “some of us living outside the USA genuinely support President Trump’s movement.” X appears to have suspended the account, though no reason has been given.
Anti-Trump accounts mislead users
Investigators discovered anti-Trump accounts posting from outside the US. One account with 52,000 followers described itself as a “proud Democrat” and “professional Maga hunter.” The user deleted the profile after the tool revealed activity from Kenya.
Scottish political accounts show foreign activity
Several accounts claimed Scottish roots while promoting independence. X’s location data shows they accessed the platform from Iran via Android. The tab lists the Netherlands as their location but warns VPN use may affect results.
Monetisation drives deceptive behaviour
Most exposed accounts carried blue ticks, showing they subscribed to X’s Premium service. This allows creators to earn money from engagement. Users must pass identity checks and reach over five million impressions in three months. Alexios Mantzarlis from Cornell Tech says the blue tick system worsens platform problems. He argues paid badges prioritise revenue over verification. Features like “community notes” indicate X is attempting to increase transparency.
Experts cite mixed motives
Accounts hide locations for multiple reasons. Darren Linvill from Clemson University studies misinformation. He says some accounts belong to troll farms or state-backed operators. Others aim to profit by posing as American voices. Mantzarlis agrees financial gain motivates many users, and political groups often use covert accounts to influence debates.
Bad actors likely to adapt quickly
Linvill believes users will bypass the new feature using VPNs or altered account creation. These tactics could make accounts appear to originate in Western countries or inside the US.
