X’S (FORMERLY AS TWITTER) TERMS & CONDITIONS AND ITS IMPACT ON THE DEBATE OF PRIVACY AND DATA OWNERSHIP

AUTHOR – SHERLYN ELIZEBETH SANTHOSH, STUDENT AT AMITY LAW SCHOOL, AMITY UNIVERSITY, MUMBAI

BEST CITATION – SHERLYN ELIZEBETH SANTHOSH, BLEEDING BOUNDARIES : RELIGION , RIGHTS AND RESTRICTIONS, AND REMEDIES, INDIAN JOURNAL OF LEGAL REVIEW (IJLR), 5 (9) OF 2025, PG. 284-302, APIS – 3920 – 0001 & ISSN – 2583-2344.

This article is published in the collaborated special issue of Amity Law School, Amity University, Mumbai and the Institute of Legal Education (ILE), titled “Emerging Trends in Law: Exploring Recent Developments and Reforms” (ISBN: 978-81-986345-1-1).

Abstract

This research paper explores the evolution of X’s (formerly Twitter) Terms and Conditions, specifically the 2024 revision, and discusses its implications for user privacy, ownership of data, and legal underpinnings of digital consent. The study explores the platform’s evolution through a multi-layered analysis, evaluating recent policy changes critically as markers of broader patterns in surveillance capitalism and corporate data supremacy. It compares the viability of user consent in these models to the counterarguments made by platform proponents and the dominant behaviours of major tech companies. Additionally, it analyses the legal protections that are in place in India and around the world and looks at emerging data vulnerabilities such as chatbot flaws, AI training methods, and third-party access. In order to gather real concerns and awareness, it uses user replies and an impartial poll to gauge public opinion. In addition to analysis, this paper offers policy suggestions for redistributing power between platforms and users, including stronger transparency requirements, clearer consent procedures, and legislative adjustments to safeguard digital rights. Finally, the study demands for a digital governance approach that is more equitable and responsible.