es.euronews.com
Coordinated CSAM Network Discovered on X
European researchers found a coordinated network distributing millions of CSAM messages on X since May 17th, using hashtags to amplify content and linking to sales sites; while X took action, new accounts continuously emerged.
- What immediate actions did X take to address the identified CSAM network, and what were its limitations?
- A coordinated network selling and distributing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) was discovered on X (formerly Twitter). The Alliance4Europe found over 150 accounts sharing CSAM over four days in July, operating since around May 17th, sharing "millions" of messages largely uninterrupted. This follows a US court reviving a lawsuit against X for allegedly failing to promptly report CSAM to the NCMEC.
- How did the discovered CSAM network leverage X's platform mechanics to distribute illegal content, and what broader implications does this have for online child safety?
- The network used hashtags as "aggregators," amplifying CSAM through comments and reposts by new accounts. Posts linked to Telegram/Discord chats, dating sites, and CSAM sales sites; one linked Bitcoin address collected $660. While X responded to flagged posts by deleting content and blocking access for minors, new accounts continuously emerged.
- What systemic changes are needed to effectively combat the proliferation of CSAM on social media platforms, balancing user privacy with the urgent need to protect children?
- X's content removal strategy, while improving after flagged posts, may inadvertently facilitate CSAM spread and hinder evidence gathering. The continuous creation of new accounts, possibly automated, points to significant operational challenges in combating CSAM distribution. The effectiveness of X's "hash matching" efforts needs further investigation considering the scale of the problem.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The framing emphasizes the scale and persistence of the criminal network's activities on X, highlighting the platform's perceived failures in content moderation. While this is important information, the article could benefit from a more balanced presentation that acknowledges X's stated efforts and the inherent challenges of policing online content at this scale. The headline itself might contribute to this bias.
Language Bias
The language used is generally neutral and factual, focusing on the reporting of the investigation's findings. However, phrases like "extremely graphic" and descriptions of the content itself could be considered emotionally charged, although they accurately reflect the severity of the issue. More precise terminology, without sensationalism, would strengthen the objectivity.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the actions of the criminal network and X's response, but omits discussion of broader societal factors contributing to the problem, such as the demand for CSAM or the effectiveness of other platforms' efforts to combat it. It also doesn't delve into the legal and ethical complexities surrounding content moderation and privacy rights, which are relevant to the EU's current debate on the issue.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat simplistic dichotomy between X's efforts to combat CSAM and the persistent success of the criminal network. The reality is likely far more nuanced, with various factors influencing the effectiveness of content moderation strategies. The article doesn't explore alternative approaches or the limitations inherent in current technologies.
Gender Bias
The article does not explicitly mention gender in relation to either the perpetrators or victims of CSAM. While this omission might not be intentional bias, it's important to consider that gender dynamics often play a significant role in such crimes and should be acknowledged in future reporting.
Sustainable Development Goals
The discovery of a coordinated network distributing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) on the X platform highlights the failure of online platforms to effectively combat online crime and protect children. The report reveals the scale of the problem and the challenges faced in identifying and removing illegal content while respecting privacy rights. The lack of immediate response from X to Euronews Next's inquiry further underscores the need for stronger institutional mechanisms to address online child sexual exploitation.