Twitter’s announcement that it is testing a new way to start direct messaging conversations with users on the platform has led to criticism from those concerned about possible abuse. The new system means that private message conversations can be started just by clicking on the newly added DM button in individual tweets.
While Twitter says the move is to make it easier to start conversations, critics point out that the new feature is likely to be used by malicious actors for harassment.
While sending direct messages to Twitter users has always been a particularly daunting task, the system currently being tested means the DM button can be accessed without going to a profile. The DM option is now in every tweet, giving anyone a quick and easy shortcut to get in touch.
We learned a lot about the types of replies you don’t find relevant and we’re expanding this test –– more of you on web and soon iOS and Android will have the option to use reply downvoting.
Downvotes aren’t public, but they’ll help inform us of the content people want to see. https://t.co/g8LcTpQqDv pic.twitter.com/wm5MmdR4Xh
— Twitter Support (@TwitterSupport) February 3, 2022
A series of replies that appeared on Twitter’s official page actually begged the company to reconsider the feature. A common complaint is that it is highly likely to be exploited by trolls and abusers to send unwanted messages:
But Twitter is currently refusing to back down, shifting the blame back to users, saying there are settings in the system that can be used to limit the delivery of DM messages.
The company doubled down on that stance in a statement. This particular experiment doesn’t change the current setup of anyone’s DMs. We’ve been exploring how to make DMs more accessible and valuable to people on Twitter who will always remain in control: anyone has the ability to Turn off their DM in their settings.