Alex Dudov
⬤ Elon Musk has sounded the alarm about AI-driven bots flooding social networks, warning that platforms might soon lose the battle for authenticity without new protective measures. He pointed out that current open-source AI systems can already beat humans at verification tests, which is why X is thinking about adding a small daily fee to make it harder for people to create automated accounts. His comments tap into rising worries about cheap AI tools becoming powerful enough to disrupt digital spaces.
⬤ Musk said X is looking at charging around $0.30 per day to make it more expensive for bot operators to run massive networks of fake accounts. He called the situation nearly an "insurmountable problem," cautioning that bots could soon twist public opinion by artificially inflating post engagement through fake likes, shares, and coordinated activity. The fact that bots can now convincingly fake human behavior creates a serious weak spot that puts social media credibility at risk.
⬤ The micro-fee idea is designed to create financial friction for bot runners, who right now face almost zero cost when spinning up accounts in bulk. Musk believes platforms that don't take preventative action will get swamped by automated systems, which could damage user trust and platform reliability. His take reflects ongoing industry arguments about how to handle increasingly clever AI manipulation that's outpacing current moderation tools.
⬤ Musk's warning highlights the tricky balance between keeping platforms accessible and protecting them from advancing automation. Growing AI capabilities might drive regulatory conversations, change how platforms make money, and force new approaches to risk management across social media. As companies test ways to verify real users and block automated abuse, user fees and verification systems will likely become central to how online platforms evolve.
Alex Dudov
