How to delete your Twitter (or X) account

Engadget - Apr 28th, 2025

The process of deleting your X account has been elucidated in a guide detailing the simple steps needed to deactivate and permanently delete your account. Users must first deactivate their account and refrain from logging in for 30 days for it to be permanently deleted. This move comes as users express dissatisfaction with the platform's culture under Elon Musk's leadership and consider alternatives like Bluesky or Threads. However, it's important to retrieve any necessary data beforehand, as X cannot provide archives after deactivation. During the 30-day window, users have the option to reactivate their account if they change their mind, though some features may take time to restore fully.

The decision to delete an X account is influenced by several factors, including a desire for a break from the platform's environment or a switch to emerging social media networks. Despite account deletion, X retains some user data to maintain platform security. The significance of this shift is underscored by the increasing interest in new platforms that promise a different social experience. This reflects broader concerns about digital privacy and control over one's online presence, highlighting the ongoing evolution of social media dynamics.

Threads Elon Musk Social Media Platforms Bluesky User Privacy X Account Deletion

Story submitted by Fairstory

RATING

6.8

Fair Story

Consider it well-founded

The article effectively provides a clear and accurate guide on how to deactivate and delete an X account, making it a useful resource for users considering this action. It excels in clarity and readability, offering a straightforward instructional style that is easy for readers to follow. However, the article could improve in terms of balance and transparency by incorporating a wider range of perspectives and disclosing the sources of its information. While it addresses a timely and relevant topic, its potential impact and engagement are somewhat limited by its narrow focus and lack of interactive elements. Overall, the article serves its purpose well but could benefit from more depth and transparency to enhance its reliability and engagement.

Accuracy

The article provides a generally accurate depiction of the process involved in deactivating and deleting an X account. It correctly outlines the need for deactivation before permanent deletion and the 30-day waiting period, which is consistent with the official guidelines from X. The claim that users must download their data archive before deactivating is also accurate, aligning with X's policies. However, the article could improve by specifying the types of data X retains post-deletion, as it only vaguely mentions retention for 'safety and security' purposes without detailing what this entails.

Balance

The article predominantly focuses on the steps and implications of deleting an X account, with a slight emphasis on reasons why users might choose to leave the platform. It mentions alternatives like Bluesky and Threads, suggesting a bias towards encouraging users to leave X. This focus on alternatives could present an imbalanced view if not supplemented with perspectives on why users might choose to remain on X or how they might address concerns without deleting their account.

Clarity

The article is well-structured, with a clear step-by-step guide on how to deactivate and delete an X account. The language is straightforward, making it easy for readers to follow the instructions. However, the article could benefit from more detailed explanations of certain terms, such as what 'curdled culture' means, to ensure all readers fully understand the context.

Source quality

The article references Ian Carlos Campbell for Engadget, a reputable tech publication, which suggests a level of reliability. However, it lacks direct citations or links to X's official documentation or other authoritative sources, which would enhance the credibility and allow readers to verify the information independently. The absence of varied sources limits the depth and authority of the content.

Transparency

The article does not clearly disclose the basis for its claims or any potential conflicts of interest. While it outlines the deactivation and deletion process, it does not explain how the information was obtained or if there are any affiliations with X or competing platforms. Greater transparency regarding the methodology or any affiliations would improve the article's credibility.