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Canadian MP Quits X Platform in Stand Against Online Exploitation and Misinformation
Sudbury Liberal MP Viviane Lapointe has announced her departure from X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, citing concerns over the proliferation of misinformation and deepfake content targeting women and children.
In her statement, Lapointe expressed particular concern about sexual deepfakes—digitally altered videos or images that make individuals appear to say or do things they never did—which have become increasingly sophisticated with advances in artificial intelligence technology.
“X/Twitter’s response does little to prevent or address the harm caused by their designed AI tools,” Lapointe wrote. “Entities that profit from these platforms have a responsibility and a duty to prevent harm, not promote.”
The MP assured constituents that her office remains fully accessible despite her exit from the platform. She will continue to maintain a social media presence on Instagram, Facebook, and Bluesky, where she will post updates and engage with the public.
Lapointe’s decision comes amid growing scrutiny of social media platforms and their role in the spread of harmful content. Last month, the Liberal government introduced Bill C-16, legislation designed “to protect victims and keep kids safe from predators.” Among its key provisions is a prohibition on the distribution of non-consensual sexual deepfakes and enhanced penalties for various sexual crimes, including the sharing of intimate images without consent.
The issue of deepfakes has gained international attention as AI technology has made them increasingly realistic and accessible to create. Women, including public figures, journalists, and celebrities, have been disproportionately targeted by sexually exploitative deepfakes, raising serious concerns about privacy, consent, and digital safety.
Despite these concerns, Federal Artificial Intelligence Minister Evan Solomon has indicated that the government has no plans to ban X, according to reporting by The Globe and Mail. The Liberal Party of Canada also continues to maintain an active presence on the platform.
Lapointe’s decision reflects a growing movement among public figures who are reconsidering their use of certain social media platforms due to concerns about content moderation policies and the potential for harm. In her statement, she pledged “to support efforts for stronger protections from harm and advocate for clear accountability from platform providers.”
Digital rights advocates have long called for stronger regulations governing social media platforms, particularly around issues of misinformation and non-consensual intimate imagery. The proliferation of AI tools has only intensified these concerns, as the technology makes creating convincing fake content easier than ever before.
The MP’s exit from X highlights the ongoing tension between the benefits of digital communication platforms and the potential harms they can facilitate when inadequately regulated or moderated. As legislators worldwide grapple with these issues, Lapointe’s stance represents one approach to addressing concerns about platform accountability.
While some critics argue that abandoning platforms entirely may limit engagement with constituents, others suggest that public figures taking such stands helps draw attention to serious issues of online safety and may ultimately pressure companies to improve their policies and practices.
For now, Lapointe remains committed to her digital advocacy work through alternative channels while continuing to serve her Sudbury constituents through traditional means of communication and remaining social media platforms.
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10 Comments
MP Lapointe’s resignation from X over deepfake concerns is a bold stand. Social media platforms must do more to address the proliferation of AI-generated misinformation and exploitation of individuals, especially women and children.
Agree completely. Deepfakes pose serious risks to privacy and consent. Platforms need robust policies and enforcement to protect users.
Lapointe’s decision to leave X over deepfake concerns is admirable. Elected officials should lead by example in holding social media companies accountable for the harms caused by their platforms.
The proliferation of deepfakes is a concerning trend that undermines trust and enables exploitation. Lapointe’s resignation highlights the need for greater regulatory oversight of social media platforms.
Well said. Platforms cannot be allowed to prioritize profits over user safety. Decisive action is required to address this critical issue.
The rise of deepfakes is a troubling development that undermines trust and enables exploitation. Lapointe’s resignation is a courageous move that highlights the urgent need for reform.
It’s encouraging to see an elected official take a principled stance against the harms of social media. Deepfakes are a growing threat that require urgent action from both platforms and policymakers.
Absolutely. Lapointe’s move sends a strong message that public figures will not tolerate these egregious violations. Platforms must be held accountable.
Deepfakes pose a serious threat to democratic discourse and individual privacy. MP Lapointe’s resignation is a principled stand that deserves widespread support.
I agree. Platforms must implement robust verification and content moderation systems to combat the spread of AI-generated misinformation.