Tech

X Launches “About This Account” Feature to Verify Global User Profiles

TIG SEA2 weeks ago

147 2 minutes read

X, the social media platform led by Elon Musk, has begun rolling out a new feature called “About This Account” for user profiles worldwide. Initially launched in late October 2025, the feature has expanded gradually throughout November, allowing users to view essential account information to verify authenticity. The feature displays details such as the country where the account was created, the primary country of use, the number of username changes, the original join date, and the method used to download the X app, whether via web or app store. This initiative aims to help users better assess the credibility of accounts they follow, particularly amid rising concerns about bot accounts and fake content.

Testing of the feature began in October, with Nikita Bier, X’s Head of Product, sharing screenshots that generated significant user interest. Users can currently access the feature through the “Joined” button under their profile details to view their own account information. In the coming days, the feature will expand to allow viewing of other users’ account information. Bier emphasized that this feature will validate content authenticity, reducing the influence of fake accounts mimicking real users.

When you read content on X, you should be able to verify its authenticity. This is critical to getting a pulse on important issues happening in the world.

As part of that, we're experimenting with displaying new information on profiles, including which country an account is… pic.twitter.com/OYgT1OiJdA
— Nikita Bier (@nikitabier) October 14, 2025

The “About This Account” feature is part of X’s push for transparency, following similar efforts by platforms such as Facebook with Page Transparency and Instagram’s own About This Account tool. It provides context about accounts, helping users make informed decisions about the authenticity of posts, particularly during politically sensitive events or when evaluating potential misinformation. Bier highlighted that X aims for users to verify content accuracy while engaging with posts.

Users can customize the display of information in the About This Account section, choosing to show the country, continent, or region. The default setting displays the country clearly, but privacy options allow users to limit visibility. X also provides safeguards for users in regions where online activity carries legal or personal risks, enabling restricted visibility to protect sensitive users.

A notable feature is VPN detection. If the system detects a VPN or proxy connection used to mask the account’s origin, it will display a warning stating, “Country or region may not be accurate.” This ensures viewers are aware of potential discrepancies, improving trust and transparency, especially for accounts promoting politically sensitive content from abroad. The update will be available across web, iOS, and Android platforms.

The feature has received mixed reactions. Many users praise the transparency it offers, particularly in identifying fake accounts claiming to be in one location while actually operating elsewhere. However, concerns about accuracy persist, especially for users on Starlink or VPNs. X is actively refining the system to address these challenges, marking another step toward a more user-friendly platform amid increasing AI-driven content and misinformation.

This Is Our Say: X’s About This Account is a crucial step in global social media transparency, helping users differentiate real from fake while maintaining control over personal visibility and privacy.

origin: Engadget