5 Key Notes On How X's New Tool Exposed Fake White House Accounts
X added a tool that shows where accounts are based, revealing some fake political profiles.
November 25, 2025
1. What new feature did X launch?
X launched a tool that shows where an account is based and how its username changed over time. Users can see this by opening the “About this account” tab. The feature aims to increase transparency because many accounts post political content without clear identity. This helps users judge if a page may be misleading. It also gives X more tools to protect platform integrity.
2. Why did X say it added this feature?
Nikita Bier, X’s head of product, said it is a step toward securing the “global town square.” He said it should help users decide whether content is authentic. This matters because online misinformation can spread quickly during elections. He added that X plans to add more tools for user verification. The goal is to reduce confusion around who is posting what.
3. What did users discover once the tool went live?
People quickly noticed that several large pro-Trump and MAGA-aligned accounts were not based in the United States. For example, an account called “MAGA NATION,” with nearly 400,000 followers, was shown to be based in Eastern Europe. Others were based in Thailand, Nigeria, and Bangladesh. This shows how foreign accounts can appear American online. It also raises governance concerns about hidden foreign influence in U.S. political conversations.
4. Why does this matter for U.S. politics?
Political accounts can shape opinions, especially during elections. When accounts pretending to be American are actually run overseas, it can mislead voters. This can increase distrust in online political spaces. It also gives foreign actors a chance to influence U.S. debates without being noticed. X hopes that location transparency reduces this risk.
5. Did any government agency respond to the new feature?
Yes. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security responded because people questioned where its X account was created. It posted that its account has “only ever been run” from the United States. This shows how quickly speculation can spread with new tools. It also shows government agencies feel the need to reassure the public about authenticity.