Bluesky, a new social media platform, is witnessing rapid growth, with over 25 million sign-ups. While the platform is gaining mainstream attention, it is simultaneously struggling with several controversies, moderation issues, and the rise of scams and fake accounts. As the platform faces these growing pains, its moderation team is under pressure to address these challenges and ensure a safe environment for users.
Jesse Singal’s Controversial Join and Backlash
Bluesky’s most significant controversy erupted last week when journalist Jesse Singal, known for his views on gender transition reversals and accused of anti-LGBTQ rhetoric, joined the platform. His account sparked immediate backlash from LGBTQ+ groups, and a petition calling for his removal garnered over 25,000 signatures. Singal became the most blocked user on Bluesky, although the platform maintained that it does not remove accounts based on activities outside the platform. Singal, however, claimed that he received death threats.
Challenges with Moderation and Scams
As Bluesky’s user base expands, the moderation team is facing increasing pressure. The platform reported a record 42,000 moderation reports in a single 24-hour period in November. Aaron Rodericks, Bluesky’s head of trust and safety, acknowledged the rising challenges, particularly concerning copyright complaints, especially from Brazil after X’s suspension in the country.
In addition to moderation issues, scams have proliferated on Bluesky, including romance and “pig butchering” scams. The platform is taking aggressive measures to remove fraudulent accounts, but scammers are continuously adapting, placing ongoing pressure on Bluesky’s security efforts.
Impersonation and Fake Accounts
Bluesky is also grappling with impersonation issues, particularly with fake celebrity accounts. Last month, the platform began labeling fake celebrity profiles that didn’t identify as satire or fan accounts. While impersonation is not as widespread on Bluesky as it is on larger platforms, high-profile figures like Ellen DeGeneres and Cristiano Ronaldo have had fake accounts identified.
Bluesky’s Verification System Under Scrutiny
Bluesky’s verification system has come under scrutiny for being overly complex. Unlike other platforms that verify individual identities, Bluesky allows users to verify their accounts through official website domains. Critics argue that this system is too technically complicated for some users, causing frustration among the platform’s growing base.
Disinformation and State-Controlled Content
The platform is also struggling with the spread of disinformation and potential propaganda, particularly from state-controlled news agencies such as China’s China Daily and Russia’s RT. While Bluesky uses user tips and automated systems to identify and remove inauthentic content, there are concerns about the presence of state actors influencing the platform’s content.
Conclusion
Despite these challenges, Bluesky continues to attract users, particularly from Elon Musk’s X. The platform has not yet reached the scale of larger social media networks like Facebook or X, but it faces increasing pressure to address its growing pains as it navigates a complex landscape of scams, controversies, and moderation challenges.
