X Targets Large Accounts Stealing Photographers' Content
X has initiated a crackdown on prominent accounts that automatically reupload content from smaller creators to take advantage of its revenue-sharing model. Nikita Bier, the head of product at X, revealed that many such accounts have been identified, and impressions are now being redirected to the original creators. He specifically mentioned Mario Nawfal, who boasts 3.5 million followers and runs X's largest live discussion show, for sharing an ABC News video without attribution. A Community Note accused Nawfal of video theft. Bier indicated that Nawfal's earnings had been slashed by 90%, with further cuts possible. Business Insider reported Nawfal's assertion that the Reshare button fails for longer tweets, which was deemed false by the community. The platform, previously known as Twitter, has faced ongoing issues with content theft, worsened since Elon Musk's acquisition. Last year, astrophotographer Paul M. Smith experienced theft of his Geminids meteor shower video by accounts like "Curiosity." After X's inaction, Smith filed DMCA notices, resulting in most removals. The Massimo account blocked Smith post-DMCA, and he claimed to PetaPixel that Massimo enjoyed Musk's protection as a favored account.
Key facts
- X is cracking down on large accounts that programmatically reupload content from smaller creators.
- Nikita Bier, X's head of product, announced the initiative on May 23, 2026.
- Bier identified accounts that game the revenue share program and circumvent crediting original authors.
- X is now identifying these posts and allocating impressions entirely to the original creator.
- Bier urged users to use Share Video or Quote feature to ensure proper attribution.
- Mario Nawfal, with 3.5 million followers, was specifically called out for sharing an ABC News video without credit.
- A Community Note on Nawfal's post stated: 'OP stole this video without providing credit.'
- Bier told Nawfal his revenue was reduced by 90% and further reductions are possible.
- Business Insider reported Nawfal's claim that the Reshare button doesn't work for longer tweets, which was community-noted as false.
- Astrophotographer Paul M. Smith had his video of the Geminids meteor shower stolen by accounts like 'Curiosity' last year.
- Smith filed DMCA notices and had most of the accounts removed after X failed to act.
- The Massimo account blocked Smith after a successful DMCA; Smith claims Massimo was protected by Elon Musk.
- Content theft on X has worsened under Elon Musk's ownership.
- Instagram also targets content thieves, but the issue is pervasive across social media.
Entities
Artists
- Paul M. Smith
Institutions
- X
- ABC News
- Business Insider
- PetaPixel
- Depositphotos
Locations
- The White House