Twitter’s anti-abuse filter for DMs may not actually help stop harassment on the platform

October 1, 2019

For many users, logging onto Twitter is a daily gamble. You might return to a calm newsfeed or your mentions and direct messages may be overtaken by abuse. Recently, Twitter launched its anti-abuse filter for DMs, but the platform’s newest feature seems like yet another bandaid rather than a solution.

Back in August, Twitter began testing its filter for Message Requests, or DMs from people that you don’t follow. It works by hiding messages that might contain offensive content behind a warning. You’re given the option to delete a message without having to open it at all.