X is trying to introduce tags for parody accounts, which seem pretty simple at first glance. But this is where it gets a little weird. A recent tweet by @swak_12 highlighted that the platform would use a robot emoji to tag parody accounts, and some users raised eyebrows at the choice.

This seems like an odd choice, as this emoji screams “bot” rather than “parody.” If implemented, it could confuse users, especially when bots and parody accounts have already caused enough damage on the platform.

Let’s go back a little to when Elon Musk bought Twitter. It later made sweeping changes to Twitter Blue, including a pay-to-play system for blue ticks. This move has made it incredibly easy for anyone to impersonate celebrities, companies, and even Musk. It was only $8 and suddenly you had confirmation that “Elons” were tweeting all kinds of weird things.

To combat the confusion, Musk implemented stricter parody rules that require the word “parody” to appear in the account name, not just the bio, to prevent fraud. “It’s not cool to scam people,” he tweeted, and banned accounts that didn’t comply.

Fast forward to now, and X is navigating a whirlwind of controversy. First, the platform admitted to using user posts to train its AI systems, to the detriment of many people. It looks aggressive, especially since it was introduced silently. Moreover, there is a steady stream of users switching to alternatives like Bluesky or Mastodon, and it’s hard to deny that X is facing some turbulence.

Bluesky in particular has grown significantly and gained millions of users by replicating the feel of the first Twitter with added control and customization features. Mastodon, meanwhile, provides a decentralized outlet for those who prefer privacy and control.