A new tool exposes unexpected account origins
X’s location feature has revealed political accounts with large followings operating outside the US. Users discovered pro-Trump accounts posting about US politics while based abroad. Some anti-Trump accounts also used misleading locations. Their posts earned millions of impressions, which can generate payouts from X.
X stands by data accuracy
The “about this account” tab displays location on each profile. It warns that travel, temporary stays, and VPNs may affect accuracy. X’s product chief Nikita Bier insists the data is 99% accurate. 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 occurred in July 2022. The profile now reads “an Indian who loves America, President Trump, Musk!”
Fan accounts reveal global origins
“IvankaNews_” promoted Trump’s daughter and gained over one million followers. It encouraged voting for Trump last year. X data shows the account operates from Nigeria and changed its username 11 times since 2010. After its location became public, the account stated that “some of us living outside the USA genuinely support President Trump’s movement.” X appears to have suspended the account, though the reason is unclear.
Anti-Trump accounts also mislead users
Investigators found anti-Trump accounts posting from unexpected regions. One account with 52,000 followers called itself a “proud Democrat” and “professional Maga hunter.” The user deleted the profile after the tool revealed activity from Kenya.
Scottish political debates show foreign influence
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 encourages misleading accounts
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 prioritize revenue over verification. Features like “community notes” indicate X is trying to improve transparency.
Experts cite mixed motives
Accounts hide locations for many 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 adds that money motivates many users and political groups often use covert accounts to influence debates.
Bad actors will adapt to bypass the feature
Linvill believes users will quickly find ways to evade the tool. VPNs and altered account creation can make accounts appear to originate in Western countries or inside the US.
