How X users can earn thousands from US election misinformation and AI images

A recent investigation by the BBC has revealed that some users on the social media platform X are making significant amounts of money by sharing misleading information about the upcoming US elections and using AI-generated images. These users claim they can earn thousands of dollars by posting content that includes a mix of true, false, and fabricated information. The investigation identified networks of accounts that frequently share each other's posts, which helps them increase their visibility and, consequently, their earnings. Some users reported making anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars each month. They often coordinate their efforts through group chats and forums, with one user stating, 'It's a way of trying to help each other out. ' The accounts involved in this activity support various political figures, including Donald Trump and Kamala Harris, while some remain independent. Although these accounts assert they are not affiliated with any official campaigns, they have attracted the attention of US politicians seeking supportive posts. On October 9, X updated its payment structure, now basing earnings for eligible accounts on engagement metrics from premium users, such as likes, shares, and comments, rather than the number of advertisements displayed on their posts. While many social media platforms allow users to monetize their content, they typically have strict guidelines against sharing misinformation. In contrast, X lacks comprehensive rules regarding false information, raising concerns about whether the platform is incentivizing users to post sensational claims, regardless of their truthfulness, during a critical period for US politics. The BBC compared the reported earnings of these X users with expected earnings based on their views, followers, and interactions, finding their claims credible. Among the misleading posts circulated by these networks were allegations of election fraud that had been debunked by authorities, as well as extreme and unfounded accusations against presidential candidates. Some of the false information originating on X has also spread to larger social media platforms like Facebook and TikTok. For instance, one user created a manipulated image that falsely depicted Kamala Harris working at McDonald's as a young woman. Other users then propagated baseless claims that the Democratic Party was altering images of their candidate. Additionally, conspiracy theories regarding a July assassination attempt on Donald Trump also gained traction on other social media platforms. X did not respond to inquiries about whether the platform encourages users to post misleading content, nor did they agree to an interview with owner Elon Musk. One user, known as Freedom Uncut, spends a considerable amount of time creating and sharing content on X. He claims to dedicate up to 16 hours a day to posting and engaging with a network of content creators. Due to threats he has received online, he chooses not to disclose his real name. Freedom Uncut reports having achieved 11 million views on his posts related to the US election. He believes he can earn a few thousand dollars monthly from X. His content often includes AI-generated images that satirize politicians. While some of his images are clearly humorous, others are more serious in nature. He views his creations as a form of art that can stimulate discussion. Freedom Uncut insists he is not attempting to deceive anyone, but rather that he can accomplish much more by utilizing AI technology. Since monetizing his profile, he feels it has become easier for individuals to generate income online. He notes that some users he knows are earning even larger sums, suggesting that posting controversial content tends to attract the most views. Freedom Uncut's posts often support Donald Trump or criticize Democrats. He believes there is greater trust in independent media, including accounts that share AI-generated images and misinformation, compared to traditional media outlets. In contrast, users like Brown Eyed Susan, who has over 200,000 followers on X, actively promote Kamala Harris. Susan, who does not disclose her last name due to online threats, initially did not intend to monetize her account but now estimates she can earn a couple of hundred dollars monthly. She frequently shares posts that promote unfounded conspiracy theories about the assassination attempt on Trump, while also creating memes that target him. Susan maintains that all her images are clearly fake, yet she strives to raise awareness for Kamala Harris. A recent incident involved a doctored image of Kamala Harris in a McDonald's uniform that went viral. Some pro-Trump accounts accused the Democrats of creating the image, but it was actually a manipulated photo. The individual who shared the image claimed it was part of an experiment and believes that people share content not based on its truthfulness, but rather because they want it to be true. X asserts that it prioritizes protecting users' voices and applies labels to some manipulated media. However, they have not responded to questions regarding their policies on misinformation during the US election campaign. This lack of response is significant, as social media companies can greatly influence the political landscape as voters prepare to make their choices.