Meta, formerly known as Facebook, launched its
newest "Twitter killer" app called Threads on Thursday, July 6. The launch, however, was immediately marred by
accusations of mass censorship as users discovered their posts being flagged or removed within minutes of publication.
Threads, designed to rival the popular microblogging site Twitter, aimed to provide users with a "free and open platform," but these incidents of censorship show otherwise. As soon as Threads went live, conservative users were quick to point out the irony of their claims. (Related:
Zuckerpunch: Meta launches new text-based app to rival Twitter, then immediately begins censoring “wrongthink.")
"Right away, there were users that showed that they have been censored," reported
Fox News Digital reporter Michael Schellenberger. "When I tried to follow those people, I found out they indeed had been censored. This is secretive censorship, and there is no right of appeal. There is no way for anyone who is being censored on those platforms to make their case and try to get off the blacklists."
Schellenberger emphasized that free speech should be protected for everyone, regardless of their opinions. "I myself don't agree with [Mark Zuckerberg] on everything, but the whole point of free speech is that it's for everybody, not just the people we agree with," he stated.
Multiple reports flooded social media and forums, claiming that their
posts were being unjustly censored and removed without any apparent violation of community guidelines. Many users expressed their frustration and disappointment as they felt betrayed.
Users shared screenshots and personal accounts of their experiences, showcasing instances where harmless opinions and critical discussions were seemingly targeted for removal. The accusations ranged from political biases to
arbitrary content suppression.
For instance, a self-described "anti-woke" lawyer, @DC_Draino, took to Twitter to express his frustration with the Threads app.
"Just downloaded and signed up for the new Meta app 'Threads' meant to imitate Twitter. I posted once about wanting to expose Biden's corrupt government, and they've already flagged me for censorship. Great platform, Zuck," the lawyer tweeted.