The social media platform X, formerly identified as Twitter, has implemented restrictions on users searching for Taylor Swift to prioritize safety. Last week, the platform faced a significant backlash after AI-generated explicit sexual images of the renowned pop star circulated on social media.

As a response to this problem, X has seemingly restricted searches for 'Taylor Swift.' When attempting to search for Swift on the platform, a message states: "Something went wrong. Try reloading."

Joe Benarroch, who serves as the head of business operations at X, claimed that the measure is temporary and has been implemented carefully as the platform emphasizes prioritizing safety on this matter. CEO Linda Yaccarino and Musk articulated X's position, expressing similar concerns and explicitly stating that the platform follows a principle known as "freedom of speech, not reach." This approach limits the dissemination of certain posts without completely deleting them.

Numerous images of Swift circulated on X, amassing millions of views, with one reportedly reaching 47 million views before the account responsible was suspended. The limitations on searches precede a 3 p.m. EST (2000 GMT) National Football League (NFL) playoff game featuring the Kansas City Chiefs and Baltimore Ravens. Swift, who is currently dating Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, is anticipated to be in attendance.

Taylor Swift, likely the most discussed figure this year across numerous countries, was awarded Time Magazine's "Person of the Year" in 2023. This recognition followed the launch of an extraordinarily successful global tour and her achievement as the most-streamed musical artist worldwide.

Shortly after assuming control, Musk terminated a significant portion of the staff, predominantly consisting of the team responsible for identifying and removing 'inappropriate content' from the platform. X intends to recruit 100 full-time employees to establish a new trust and safety office in Austin, Texas. This initiative comes just days before CEO Linda Yaccarino is scheduled to testify before the Senate Judiciary Committee on January 31st, addressing X's approach to moderating child sexual exploitation issues.