Monday, 30 June 2025
30.6 C
Singapore
34.4 C
Thailand
21.6 C
Indonesia
29.7 C
Philippines

X’s new feature unveils a major privacy flaw

Discover how X's new voice and video calling feature unintentionally reveals users' IP addresses, poses significant privacy and safety risks.

In today’s world, where protecting personal data is a top priority, the revelation that X’s new voice and video calling feature exposes users’ IP addresses is startling. This feature, recently added to the platform formerly known as Twitter, directly contradicts the data privacy advocacy of its owner, Elon Musk. As this feature became available to all users, privacy experts have raised alarm bells over the unintentional disclosure of IP addresses during calls.

The risk to user privacy and safety

The exposure of IP addresses is more than a minor privacy concern; it’s a significant risk, especially for the platform’s most vulnerable users. X has become a crucial tool for political activists and other sensitive groups, making the potential for location exposure through IP addresses a severe safety issue. This is particularly concerning given Elon Musk’s previous emphasis on Direct Message (DM) encryption – a feature rolled out to paying users last year. Musk’s vision of making X “the most trusted platform on the internet” seems to be at odds with this oversight.

A balancing act between innovation and oversight

For users worried about privacy, turning off the settings’ voice and video calling features is a viable option. However, introducing this feature without considering the privacy implications suggests a broader issue with X’s current development strategy. The company prioritises rapid development, potentially at the expense of thorough quality control and privacy considerations. This approach could lead to more such oversights, jeopardising user privacy and trust.

The recent discovery of X’s voice and video calling feature sheds light on the complex challenges tech companies face when introducing new functionalities. While innovation drives these platforms forward, protecting user privacy cannot be an afterthought. In an age where data is as valuable as currency, companies like X must ensure they maintain the trust of their users. This incident is a critical lesson for X and other tech giants. As they forge ahead with new technologies, they must also strengthen their commitment to user privacy and security.

Hot this week

Lenovo unveils new hybrid AI services and platforms to accelerate enterprise transformation

Lenovo expands its Hybrid AI Advantage with new services, solutions, and platforms to help enterprises scale and operationalise AI.

Sharp launches AQUOS wish5 smartphone in Singapore with focus on safety and sustainability

Sharp launches AQUOS wish5 in Singapore, featuring vibration SOS alert, military-grade durability, and eco-conscious materials.

AWS opens innovation hub in Singapore to drive cloud and AI adoption across Asia Pacific

AWS opens first Innovation Hub in Asia Pacific to accelerate digital transformation with cloud and AI for regional businesses.

Diablo IV’s ninth season brings new depth to your endgame grind

Season 9 of Diablo IV adds console mouse support, stronger endgame dungeons, and new challenges to keep hardcore players on their toes.

Xiaomi launches Smart Band 10 and brings POP Run 2025 to Singapore

Xiaomi unveils Smart Band 10 in Singapore with wellness features and fashion upgrades, alongside the return of POP Run 2025 on 12 July.

Cheapest SIM-only plans in Singapore 2025: Flexible, contract-free mobile data

Compare the cheapest SIM-only plans in Singapore for 2025, with up to 1TB data, 5G access, roaming, and no-contract options from S$8/month.

Android 16 to alert you if your phone connects to a fake cell tower

Android 16 will warn you if your phone connects to a fake tower, helping protect your calls, texts, and location from silent spying.

Runway moves into gaming with new AI platform Game Worlds

Runway launches Game Worlds, an AI platform aiming to reshape game creation and expand its success from film into the gaming industry.

TikTok trials new ‘bulletin boards’ to rival Instagram’s broadcast channels

TikTok is testing bulletin boards, a new feature similar to Instagram's broadcast channels, for direct creator-to-fan updates.

Related Articles

Popular Categories