Question from a reader:
I have a question about tweets on Twitter. To what extent can content lead to account suspension or legal issues? Specifically, in the following cases: 1. Tweeting using euphemisms for vulgar words. 2. Tweeting vulgar words without euphemisms. 3. Posting vulgar images with modifications. I have no intention of doing such things, but it seems that there
are no particular issues when such content circulates on Twitter, so I was curious and asked this question.

Considering the Legal Risks of Tweets on Twitter

Recently, I often hear news about statements and posts on Twitter causing problems. As someone studying psychology, I frequently contemplate the impact of social media on people’s psychology and the legal aspects involved. In particular, posts containing vulgar words or images can lead to account suspension or legal issues if not handled carefully. This time, I would like to consider what types of content can pose risks by providing specific cases.

Regarding the Use of Vulgar Words

First, let’s think about the risks of using vulgar words. Among the content mentioned by the questioner, the presence or absence of “euphemisms” is particularly noteworthy. The risks differ between tweeting using euphemisms for vulgar words and not using them. Tweeting while using euphemisms for vulgar words is not explicitly prohibited by Twitter’s terms of service. However, while using euphemisms makes it harder for others to find the content, it does not significantly change the legal perspective. In other words, if the content is vulgar, there is still a possibility of account suspension due to reports from other users. For example, a friend of mine used “euphemism techniques” to express vulgar content on Twitter, and a few days later, his account was frozen. He posted with a light-hearted attitude, thinking “it won’t be found,” but surprisingly, he received many reports, prompting action from Twitter. From this experience, I realized that vulgar content indeed carries risks.

When Tweeting Vulgar Words Without Euphemisms

Next, let’s consider the case of tweeting vulgar words without euphemisms. In this case, the risks increase further. Twitter’s terms of service clearly state that statements falling under “inappropriate content” may lead to account suspension and, in some cases, legal action. To provide a specific example, one user openly used vulgar words and directed them at their followers, resulting in a flood of reports from other users. As a result, the account was immediately suspended, and the situation escalated to an investigation by the police. In fact, the use of vulgar words can fall under defamation or insult laws, requiring particular caution. As someone who also uses social media, hearing such cases makes me reflect deeply. The power of words is strong, and once content is released, it cannot be retracted. That is why self-censorship becomes crucial. I always ask myself before posting, “Is this really appropriate?”

Regarding Posting Vulgar Images

Finally, let’s discuss the posting of vulgar images with modifications. This action also carries risks. Just because there are modifications does not mean it is necessarily safe. Twitter’s guidelines have very strict regulations regarding the posting of sexual content and images, and users must comply with them. As a specific case, there was an instance where a user modified an image to include vulgar content, and their account was suspended after receiving reports from Twitter. Just because it was modified does not mean that the content is permitted. In fact, such actions are more likely to be deemed inappropriate. I also sometimes share interesting images on social media with friends, but I always avoid vulgar content. This is not only for my enjoyment but also because it could offend other users. Considering that even a single image can influence many people, one should be cautious.

Conclusion

This time, I reflected on the legal risks associated with posting vulgar words and images on Twitter. The presence or absence of euphemisms, as well as the content of words and images, can lead to account suspension or legal issues. In particular, vulgar content not only makes others uncomfortable but also requires caution from the perspective of defamation and insult laws. As for myself, when using social media, I always consider the impact of what I post. While enjoying social media is important, I realize that self-censorship and ethical judgment are key to using it safely. I hope readers will also take a moment to reflect on the potential impact of their own posts.