Twitter has started testing a new banner notification system that lets users know whether their account has been temporarily locked (restricted), or if it has been permanently suspended. To recall, the social media platform can choose to restrict or lock an account for a multitude of reasons, but mostly in case of content policy violations. When a Twitter account is put in locked mode, the account owner is restricted from tweeting, liking, or retweeting any content on the platform. A locked account can only browse the platform in a read-only mode and DM with its followers. Twitter usually takes a week to lift account lock, but it may ask users to verify their mobile number or email address before the account restoration countdown begins.
As far as account suspensions go, it is the most extreme disciplinary action that Twitter takes in case of severe policy violations. Twitter says that a permanent account suspension happens mostly in the case of profiles that are spammy, fake, or pose a security threat. Moreover, if Twitter detects that an account has been hacked, a temporary suspension is put in place until the account privileges are restored to the rightful owner. Additionally, abusive conduct can lead to both temporary as well as permanent suspension. However, Twitter does offer a mechanism to appeal the account suspension if users think that the disciplinary action may have been a mistake and a review is required.
Previously, users were informed about an account lock or suspension when they tried to Tweet or follow other accounts, as there was no mechanism to inform them proactively within the app. Twitter does send an email notice regarding disciplinary actions, but they stand a chance of getting ignored. To avoid confusion (and surprise), Twitter will now show a banner at the top of the feed, advising users if their account has been permanently suspended, or locked owing to certain policy violations. The banner will also tell users about the online activity restrictions, now that their account has been put in a read-only mode.
A Less Surprising Way To Find Out
Twitter is currently running the test among a small number of users on the web as well as mobile for its Android and iOS clients. However, it is unclear if Twitter aims to expand the feature to all users across the globe. The banner at the top of the feed is the most convenient place to show the notice. More importantly, it will also guide users to the official support pages where they can read in detail about Twitter’s account suspension or restriction policies, but no link to request a review.
However, users whose account has been permanently suspended will find a link to the appeal page where they can submit details such as the account holder’s name, username, email and phone number (optional) to submit a review application. Once the request has been sent, Twitter’s team will analyze the case and take the appropriate action. If the suspension was legitimate, the same will be communicated with details about the platform guidelines that were violated. To recall, Twitter already has a dedicated website that tells users about how its policies are enforced, data requests, and more.
Source: Twitter