FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Author’s Verified X Account Blocked for Over 180 Days Due to Bug – No Human Response from Platform
April 10, 2025 — United Kingdom — Author and conservationist Martin Newbold, known for his published works including The Stealing of Emily and The Badgers of Bunger Hill, has been locked out of his verified X (formerly Twitter) account for over six months, after the platform incorrectly flagged all his activity as “automated.”
Despite repeated support requests and a detailed technical report filed via HackerOne in October 2024 (#3065988), the platform has failed to respond or restore access. Newbold’s follower count has also been mysteriously erased.
“This is not just a glitch—it’s a denial of voice,” said Newbold. “Platforms like X can’t claim to champion free speech while allowing AI bugs to silence real people for months, without appeal.”
The error appears to stem from an overzealous anti-spam algorithm or CORS-related technical fault, a problem reportedly affecting other users as well.
Newbold has now filed a formal complaint to Ofcom, citing X’s systemic failure to provide redress, as required under the UK’s Online Safety regime.