According to The Washington Post, Elon Musk’s X is slowing down access to websites he doesn’t like. The platform previously known as Twitter has added a five-second delay when users click on links to the New York Times, Facebook, and other sites that Elon Musk frequently criticizes. 

The Washington Post conducted tests that revealed the delayed access, affecting websites including Facebook, Instagram, Bluesky, Substack, Reuters, and the Times. The delay is applied to links using the t.co domain, which is used by X to process all posted links. While some of the throttling has been reversed, it remains unclear if all websites have been restored to normal service. 

Musk and X have not responded to requests for comment on the matter. The affected businesses, including the New York Times and Substack, expressed concern over targeted pressure and delays on news organizations. Online companies are aware that delays in website loading can lead to a loss of traffic and user abandonment. The Post’s tests did not reveal when the delays began, but a user on Hacker News reported first seeing delayed links to Times stories on August 4. Musk has previously criticized the Times and engaged in online feuds with Mark Zuckerberg and Jack Dorsey.

Source: The Washington Post