Twitter Rolls Out Anti-Hate Feature That Could Help De-Toxify Social Media Safety Mode will begin testing on a small feedback group prioritizing female journalists and users from marginalized communities.

By Emily Rella

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

SOPA Images | Getty Images

Social media can be a toxic and potentially traumatic place when it comes to hateful and unwanted messages. Whether it's a hot take, politically charged comment or subjective opinion on just about anything, all it takes is one confrontational reply to get the ball rolling and it can quickly become open season on the user in question, whether they're a public figure — or intentionally being provocative — or not.

Related: Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey to Develop a Decentralized Exchange for Bitcoin

It's something that hasn't flown under the radar for the Twitter team, and the company's newest initiative is working to combat the toxicity. Dubbed Safety Mode, the feature will temporarily block Twitter accounts for one week for using "potentially harmful language" or for "sending repetitive and uninvited replies or mentions."

Users can choose to opt into the feature by toggling it on in their settings.

Twitter said in a statement that its technology will "assess the likelihood of a negative engagement by considering both the Tweet's content and the relations between the Tweet author and replier."

The company does clarify that it's unlikely that someone the tweeter interacts with frequently and positively will automatically be blocked should a seemingly negative interaction occur.

"We want you to enjoy healthy conversations, so this test is one way we're limiting overwhelming and unwelcome interactions that can interrupt those conversations," Twitter's statement added. "Our goal is to better protect the individual on the receiving end of tweets by reducing the prevalence and visibility of harmful remarks."

Twitter said it conducted research and feedback with experts in the fields of online safety, human rights and mental health and that the initial rollout feedback group would prioritize female journalists and those from marginalized communities.

Safety Mode will first be available to the feedback group on iOS, Android and Twitter.com before rolling out sitewide.

Related: 3 Tech Stocks To Watch In September

Emily Rella

Senior News Writer

Emily Rella is a Senior News Writer at Entrepreneur.com. Previously, she was an editor at Verizon Media. Her coverage spans features, business, lifestyle, tech, entertainment, and lifestyle. She is a 2015 graduate of Boston College and a Ridgefield, CT native. Find her on Twitter at @EmilyKRella.

Want to be an Entrepreneur Leadership Network contributor? Apply now to join.

Side Hustle

They Started a Side Hustle Producing an 'Obvious' Food Item. It Hit $300,000 Monthly Revenue Fast — On Track for Over $20 Million in 2025.

When Jason Rosenbaum and Hailey Swartz couldn't find the product they wanted to see on grocery store shelves, they took matters into their own hands.

Business Ideas

70 Small Business Ideas to Start in 2025

We put together a list of the best, most profitable small business ideas for entrepreneurs to pursue in 2025.

Business News

Here's How Much Google Software Engineers, Product Managers, and Data Scientists Make in a Year

Data revealed in federal filings shows how much Google is compensating its employees.

Real Estate

Why Buying a 'Second Home' First is the New Way to Build Wealth — and Enjoy Free Vacations

The dream of owning a home has never felt more out of reach. So, a growing number of aspiring homeowners are making an unconventional choice.

Business Ideas

What My First Failed Startup Taught Me — and How I Finally Got It Right 20 Years Later

Launching a startup two decades after a failed first attempt brought clarity, humility, and a deeper understanding of what it really takes to build a sustainable business.

Business News

Microsoft Executive Says Using AI Has Saved $500 Million in Productivity Costs, as the Company Conducts Mass Layoffs

Microsoft is leveraging AI tools for cost savings in various departments, including customer service.