X is filled with accounts that mimic real-life public figures, from politicians to athletes to artists. While some accounts use the word “parody” in their display names, others mention it in their bios, leading some to mistake them for real accounts.
To help users better identify these parody accounts, X is reportedly developing a new “Parody account” label. This label would show up below the username on the profile page and on posts, making it clear that the account is not the real person.
The challenge for X will be enforcing this label. Currently, the platform’s rules ask parody accounts to be transparent about their intent, but not all of them follow these guidelines. If a large number of parody accounts don’t adopt the new label, it could still leave users confused.
X already has labels for automated bot accounts, but those don’t always work as intended either. Bad actors have found ways to control narratives using bots without properly labeling them.
Applying the parody label consistently will be key. X will need clear policies around when accounts must use the label, and how to handle those that don’t comply. Otherwise, the new feature risks being ineffective at stopping impersonation and misinformation.
