Social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, has officially introduced an updated and somewhat controversial version of its blocking feature. The tool, designed to give users more control over their interactions on the platform, has made revisions that significantly change how users can limit engagement with other accounts.

The blocking feature on X enables users to ban certain accounts from directly associating with them. When an account is blocked, they can’t follow, like, reply, repost, or send direct messages to the person who blocked them. However, if a user’s posts are set to public, blocked accounts can still see their posts, but won’t be able to interact with them. If posts are set to Protected, only approved followers can see them, so blocked accounts are completely restricted from seeing them.

One of the most notable changes in this update is that blocked accounts no longer receive direct notifications indicating that they have been blocked. However, if a blocked user tries to visit the profile of the account that blocked them, they will see a notice confirming that they are blocked. This is different from the “Mute” feature, which also limits interaction but is invisible to the muted account.

Additionally, posts from blocked accounts will no longer appear on the user’s timeline. However, posts mentioning a blocked account, or posts from other users tagging a blocked account, may still be visible if the blocking user follows that person’s postings. Users can manage notifications from blocked accounts by searching for specific mentions, but they will not automatically receive notifications from blocked accounts or accounts they do not follow when mentioned in a conversation started by the blocked account.

To block an account, users can either click on the three-dot icon on the account’s posts or go directly to the account’s profile page. From there, users simply select “Block” and confirm. If the user decides to unblock the account, they can revisit the blocked account’s profile, select the “Blocked” button and confirm unblocking. Notably, unblocking an account does not automatically result in re-following them; Both users will have to follow each other again.

This updated blocking feature is now live, and X encourages users to explore other options like muting to enhance their platform experience, especially if blocking feels too restrictive. The changes come as X continues to evolve its tools for online interactions, aiming to balance user security and flexibility in communication.