Twitter prepares curbs on hate speech

Twitter is preparing to introduce new measures to reduce the visibility of “hate speech” or “trolling” on the site. But management faces a struggle to balance some Twitter users’ desire for anonymity and free speech – such as contributed to the Arab Spring protests – with the wish of others to be protected against abuse.

Dick Costolo, Twitter’s chief executive, became visibly emotional as he described his frustration in tackling the problem of “horrifying” abuse while maintaining the company’s mantra that “tweets must flow.” One technical approach Twitter is considering would hide from users’ page of replies any tweets directed at them by individuals who are not seen as “authoritative”, because they have no followers, no biographical information and no profile picture. But the company’s management is also painfully aware that this could diminish open exchange on the site and undermine Twitter’s long-held commitment to free speech.