Council Suspends Use of X Over Misinformation Concerns
Warwick District Council has suspended its presence on X, formerly known as Twitter, due to rising concerns about misinformation and harmful content on the platform. The decision was made during a cabinet meeting on Thursday. The council said it no longer wished to be associated with the type of posts circulating on X.
Officials said the move is immediate. The council’s marketing and communications team will now guide its 12,000 followers to other channels for updates.
Concerns Grow Over Misleading Content
Cabinet member Rebecca Davidson said councillors had been worried about the increase in controversial posts. She added that X has become a space where misinformation spreads quickly and often incites action. The council said it would also write to local MPs. It wants the government to consider taking similar steps.
Davidson said other councils, including Solihull and Rugby, have already left the platform. She believes the shift is necessary to protect public communication and trust.
Council Moves to Alternative Communication Channels
The council plans to expand communication through platforms where engagement remains strong. It said Facebook, Instagram, and other networks will continue to be its primary channels. The team is also exploring new tools. These include WhatsApp groups, text alerts, and a dedicated mobile app.
A pinned post on the council’s X account now directs followers to these alternative platforms. Officials say the goal is to ensure residents continue receiving accurate and timely updates.
The council said it wants communication to be safer, clearer, and more reliable. It added that its marketing team is committed to improving digital services. The decision highlights growing concerns among public bodies about misinformation and harmful online behavior. The council says it hopes others will reassess their own use of X.