Introduction
X, previously known as Twitter, introduced a new feature that alerts users when someone accesses the platform through a VPN or proxy. As a result, many users will now see a clear warning on profiles that show masked or altered locations. Moreover, the company says the feature strengthens transparency at a time when social networks face intense global scrutiny.
This shift comes as digital platforms continue to deal with misinformation, coordinated bot activity and identity fraud. Therefore, X believes the update offers an important step toward improving trust.
X Now Displays a VPN Warning on Profiles
The new system shows a profile banner whenever someone logs in through a VPN or proxy. Consequently, the banner signals that the account may not reflect its real region. This change, in turn, makes location masking far more visible to the public.
Many people use VPNs for privacy or to bypass censorship. Others rely on them to access region-restricted content. However, organised networks also use VPNs to hide their identity and launch influence operations. Because of these risks, X argues that the new warning helps users understand an account’s credibility.
In addition, the feature tries to reduce confusion about account origins. It also limits organised campaigns that depend on false or misleading locations.
Nikita Bier Says the Change Targets Fake Accounts
Nikita Bier, the Head of Product at X, explained the motivations behind the update. He said the company wants to slow the spread of false information and reduce the visibility of fake accounts. Furthermore, he noted that misleading location data often fuels online manipulation.
Earlier this year, Bier announced that X would show more information on profiles, including an account’s country of origin. You can read more about that update here: X Rolls Out Feature Allowing Users to See an Account’s Country of Origin. These details also include whether users rely on VPN tools.
This approach aligns with broader industry trends. For example, major platforms now label state-affiliated media, political advertisers and AI-generated content. In the same way, X has chosen to highlight VPN use to strengthen transparency.
Global Launch Completed After a Staged Rollout
X began the rollout on 21 November. The company then expanded the feature in phases until it covered all regions. Eventually, the system reached full global operation.
The platform now compares the region a profile claims with technical information linked to the connection. If X detects a mismatch, it displays a VPN notice. Consequently, users receive a direct signal that the region shown may not be accurate.
Although the company has avoided sharing exact detection techniques, it says the feature relies on existing security data. It does not collect any new personal details beyond standard platform requirements.
Now that the rollout is complete, users in Europe, South Asia, Africa, North America and the Middle East will see the new labels. In effect, the warning has become a universal part of the platform’s identity system.
Privacy Option for Users in Restrictive Countries
Despite the new transparency features, X says it still recognises the importance of user safety. Many people in restrictive countries depend on VPNs to express themselves freely. In those regions, governments use censorship, surveillance and platform blocking to control public speech.
To address these challenges, X offers a privacy setting that hides more precise location details. Instead, users can show only a broad region. According to Bier, this option protects people who live under strict controls or face real risks for speaking openly online.
Countries like Iran, China and several Gulf states maintain tight restrictions on social media. Independent organisations such as Freedom House regularly document these limits. Their reports show that millions of people rely on VPNs to reach uncensored information. Therefore, VPN access remains a lifeline for many citizens.
Balancing Openness and User Safety
X now walks a careful line between openness and security. On one hand, the company wants to expose coordinated manipulation. On the other hand, it understands that many users need privacy to stay safe.
Supporters claim the change improves clarity and reduces misinformation. Critics argue that the warning could create misunderstandings or raise safety concerns. Nevertheless, the update marks a significant shift in how platforms handle hidden technical signals.
In the end, X’s new feature will likely influence how users evaluate the accounts they encounter every day.
