Twitter is one of the world’s most popular social media platforms, with over 330 million active users. With the ability to tweet and engage with others, Twitter has become a vital platform for news, entertainment, and communication. However, it seems that the platform has recently encountered another security vulnerability: Twitter flaw that allows users to like an edited tweet multiple times.
The Twitter flaw was first discovered by Jane Manchun Wong, a well-known security researcher who has previously uncovered several other vulnerabilities in popular social media platforms. Wong demonstrated the flaw in a tweet, where she liked an edited tweet multiple times by simply unliking and re-liking it. Wong’s discovery has raised concerns among Twitter users about the potential for manipulation of the platform’s engagement metrics.
This vulnerability is significant because it allows users to artificially inflate the popularity of a tweet. For example, a person or group could edit a tweet to include a controversial or sensationalist message and use multiple accounts to like the tweet multiple times, making it appear more popular than it actually is.
It’s important to note that the Twitter flaw only allows users to like an edited tweet multiple times. It does not allow them to retweet or reply to the tweet multiple times. The vulnerability is not as severe as other Twitter vulnerabilities that have allowed malicious actors to take over accounts, post tweets, or access user data. Nonetheless, the flaw remains a significant issue that requires a solution.
Twitter has acknowledged the flaw and is reportedly working on a fix. In the meantime, users should be aware of the vulnerability and exercise caution when liking tweets. Twitter’s security team has recommended that users use their best judgment when engaging with content on the platform.
Twitter’s history with security vulnerabilities
Twitter has a history of encountering security vulnerabilities on its platform. In recent years, the company has faced several high-profile data breaches and security incidents. In July 2020, Twitter experienced a massive security breach where high-profile accounts belonging to Barack Obama, Joe Biden, and Elon Musk, among others, were hacked. The hackers used the accounts to post tweets soliciting Bitcoin donations, leading to widespread panic and confusion.
The hack exposed Twitter’s vulnerability to social engineering attacks, where hackers use human behavior to gain access to sensitive information. The hackers in the 2020 Twitter breach used social engineering tactics to gain access to the accounts, such as pretending to be Twitter employees or other trustworthy entities.
Twitter’s response to the 2020 hack was swift. The company released a statement that it was “embarrassed” and that it had “fallen short” in protecting its users’ privacy and security. Twitter also promised to investigate the matter and implement stricter security measures.
In addition to the 2020 Twitter hack, the company has faced other security vulnerabilities in the past. In 2018, a bug in the platform’s password storage exposed the passwords of its users. In 2017, a vulnerability in Twitter’s account verification process allowed a hacker to take over the verified account of a cryptocurrency trader and tweet out fraudulent links to cryptocurrency scams.
Twitter has addressed these security vulnerabilities through a combination of increased security measures and policy changes. For example, the company has implemented two-factor authentication and has encouraged users to enable it. Twitter has also implemented stricter password requirements and has enforced stricter password change policies.
Additionally, Twitter has taken steps to improve the verification process for its users. The company has made it easier for users to apply for verification, and it has updated its verification policy to clarify what types of accounts are eligible for verification.
Social media platforms have become an integral part of our lives. They enable us to connect with friends and family, share information, and engage in conversations with people from all over the world. However, they also expose us to a range of cybersecurity risks.
